Uses

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is indicated for the prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency, rickets in children, osteomalacia in adults, and as supplementation in conditions associated with impaired vitamin D absorption or metabolism.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in hypercalcemia, hypervitaminosis D, severe renal impairment, and known hypersensitivity to cholecalciferol.

Side effects

Adverse effects are uncommon at recommended doses. Excessive intake may cause hypervitaminosis D, manifesting as hypercalcemia, nausea, weakness, polyuria, and in severe cases, renal damage.

Warnings

Monitor serum calcium and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in patients on long-term supplementation or at risk of toxicity. Infants and young children are particularly sensitive to vitamin D toxicity.

How it works

Cholecalciferol is hydroxylated in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D and then in the kidney to the active metabolite 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol), which promotes intestinal calcium and phosphate absorption, bone mineralization, and regulates parathyroid hormone secretion.

Storage

Store at room temperature below 25°C, protected from light and moisture.