| Common Brands | Calciferol (also known as Ergocalciferol) |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Vitamin D2 |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Calciferol is a general term used for vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), two types of vitamin D that are crucial for the body’s overall health, particularly in maintaining calcium and phosphate balance, which is necessary for healthy bones and teeth.
But most famously associated is Calciferol with vitamin D2, or ergocalciferol-a synthetic derivative of vitamin D prescribed as prophylactic therapy against a deficiency of this vitamin, though trace amounts are naturally present in certain forms of fungi, where it results from exposure to UV.
Calciferol is taken as a supplement and can be used in the prevention or treatment of rickets, osteomalacia, osteoporosis, and hypocalcemia. It is mostly used in cases of vitamin D deficiency, which may be caused by lack of exposure to sunlight, insufficient nutrition, or some other medical condition such as malabsorption.
Oral tablet and liquid forms are most commonly available for ergocalciferol, calciferol in its vitamin D2 form. Dosing and dosing frequency depend on the level of deficiency, the individual’s medical condition, and at the discretion of the provider. Here is a general guide to how calciferol is used:
Oral Tablets: Calciferol is typically prescribed in tablet form. The doses are between 400 IU and 50,000 IU per week depending on the level of deficiency.
Liquid Form: In case the patient has difficulty in swallowing tablets, calciferol can also be given in liquid form. The dose will be adjusted according to the needs of the patient in liquid form.
In a case of severe deficiency, higher doses of calciferol may be used initially to quickly raise vitamin D levels, followed by lowering the dose to a maintenance level once optimal levels are reached.
It is usually advised that calciferol be ingested with food since it’s fat-soluble; therefore, it can more easily be absorbed if taken with fat in the meal.
The main action of calciferol, like all forms of vitamin D, is the promotion of calcium and phosphate absorption from the intestines, which is essential for maintaining bone strength and overall health.
Here’s how calciferol works:
Absorption and Activation: The drug is absorbed in the small intestine after oral administration and further converted in the liver to the major circulating form of vitamin D, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, which is also known as calcidiol.
Calcium and phosphate regulation: Calcitriol is the active form of vitamin D. It facilitates the absorption of calcium and phosphate from the gastrointestinal tract. It thus maintains bone mineralization.
Immune System Modulation: Calcitriol acts on the immune system as well. It facilitates immune modulation and the control of inflammatory responses, thus being useful in diseases such as autoimmune disorders and other immuno-related disorders.
Even though calciferol is relatively safe when used according to the prescription, some patients might experience side effects from its use. Some common side effects include:
Hypercalcemia: Too much vitamin D in the body causes excessive calcium in the blood, a condition known as hypercalcemia, which may result in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, weakness, confusion, and kidney stones.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Some people may have stomach upset, constipation, or diarrhea while on calciferol.
Fatigue or Drowsiness: In some cases, high levels of vitamin D may cause fatigue or drowsiness.
Kidney Damage: Long-term overuse of vitamin D can lead to kidney damage because of the high levels of calcium.
There are several warnings and precautions that should be considered before beginning calciferol supplementation.
Kidney Disease: Patients suffering from kidney disease or kidney stones should be treated with calciferol with extreme care since excessive vitamin D levels can aggravate kidney diseases.
Hypercalcemia: Those patients who already have high calcium levels should avoid excess vitamin D supplements since it may worsen hypercalcemia.
Pregnancy and Breast-feeding: Vitamin D is an essential requirement during pregnancy and breast-feeding, but supplementation with high doses of vitamin D should be avoided.
Thiazide Diuretics: These diuretics, like hydrochlorothiazide, may increase the risk of hypercalcemia when used with calciferol, as they reduce calcium excretion.
Anticonvulsants: Medications like phenytoin and phenobarbital can accelerate the metabolism of calciferol, reducing its effectiveness and potentially leading to deficiency.
Corticosteroids: Chronic use of corticosteroids can decrease calcium absorption and interfere with Vitamin D’s ability to maintain calcium balance.
Magnesium Supplements: High doses of magnesium may interact with calciferol, potentially leading to elevated magnesium levels and requiring monitoring.
Depending upon severity of the deficiency, age and presence of other particular health disorders, the dosage for calciferol will change. However, here is an estimate regarding some general guidelines,
Dosages recommended to adults: Normally 800-2000 IU / day is prescribed by many when vitamin D deficiencies arise, though the medical sciences say use higher doses while trying to bring back quickly when such deficiencies are serious then lessen the dose accordingly so the levels of vitamins have increased.
For Children: The quantity for the children is usually gauged based on their age and weight. The severe cases usually require between 400 to 1000 IU, depending on the level of deficiency.
Always comply with what the doctor says; have a follow-up of levels to prevent over-supplementation.
Calciferol (ergocalciferol) is usually prescribed, especially when higher doses are needed to treat severe vitamin D deficiency. However, in some countries, lower doses can be purchased over the counter.
Vitamin D is fat-soluble, so it can be stored in the body, and excessive intake can lead to toxicity. Calciferol should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider to ensure proper dosage and monitoring.
What is Calciferol?
How is Calciferol produced?
What are the primary benefits of Calciferol?
Who might need Calciferol supplementation?
How is Calciferol administered?
What is the recommended dosage for adults?
What are common side effects of Calciferol?
Can Calciferol cause serious side effects?
Who should avoid taking Calciferol?
What precautions should be taken before using Calciferol?
Does Calciferol interact with other medications?
Is it safe to take Calciferol with calcium supplements?
Should Calciferol be taken with food?
Can diet affect the effectiveness of Calciferol?
Where can I find more information about Calciferol?
What should I do if I miss a dose of Calciferol?
What resources are available for patients taking Calciferol?
What should I do if I have concerns about taking Calciferol?
Is Calciferol safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
Is Calciferol suitable for children?
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