What is vitamin D-oral, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Vitamin D is a necessary vitamin for the growth and
development of bones. Vitamin D is commonly known as ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2)
and cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3). Vitamin D2 and D3 are broken down to their
active form, calcitriol, in the body. Calcitriol works by increasing absorption
of calcium and phosphorus in the body. Calcitriol also prevents loss of calcium
and phosphorus from kidneys so they are absorbed back in the body to maintain
sufficient levels.
What brand names are available for vitamin D-oral?
Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2), Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3), Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3)
Is vitamin D-oral available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
Do I need a prescription for vitamin D-oral?
Vitamin D2 and D3 50000 IU are available with a prescription.
Vitamin D2 and D3 400 – 5000 IU are available over-the-counter (OTC).
What are the uses for vitamin D-oral?
Vitamin D is used for treating hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D resistant rickets, and low vitamin D levels. Over-the-counter Vitamin D preparations are commonly used for low Vitamin D levels.
What are the side effects of vitamin D-oral?
Side effects of Vitamin D include:
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- constipation,
- weight loss,
- weakness, and
- increased calcium levels (hypercalcemia).
What is the dosage for vitamin D-oral?
- Hypoparathyroidism: Take 25000 to 200000 IU vitamin D by mouth once daily with 4 grams of calcium lactate 6 times daily.
- Vitamin D resistant rickets: Take 12000 to 500000 IU Vitamin D by mouth once daily.
- Daily intake of vitamin D: Take 600 IU daily.
Which drugs or supplements interact with vitamin D-oral?
Vitamin D should be used with caution with mineral oil
because mineral oil slows down the absorption of Vitamin D and reduces its
therapeutic benefits.
Thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) and chlorthalidone (Thalitone)
should be used with caution in people with hypoparathyroid taking Vitamin D,
because thiamine diuretics may increase calcium levels.
QUESTION
According to the USDA, there is no difference between a “portion” and a “serving.”
See Answer
Is vitamin D-oral safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no adequate studies done on Vitamin D to determine safe
and effective use in pregnant women.
Vitamin D enters breast milk. Therefore, it is best to be
cautious before using it in nursing mothers.
What else should I know about vitamin D-oral?
What preparations of vitamin D-oral are available?
PREPARATIONS: Vitamin D2 and D3 are available in 400, 800, 1000, 2000, 2400,
and 5000 international units (IU) tablets and capsules. Vitamin D2 is available
in 50000 IU (1.25 mg) softgels. Vitamin D3 is available in 50000 IU capsules.
How should I keep vitamin D-oral stored?
Vitamin D capsules and tablets are stored at room temperature
between 15 C – 30 C (59 F – 86 F).