Cholecalciferol [Vitamin D3]
Generic Details
Generic Name
Cholecalciferol-Vitamin D3
Other Names
- Vitamin D3
- Vitamin D
Drug Class
- Vitamin and Mineral Supplement
Chemical Formula
C27H44O
Molecular Weight
384.64 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Cholecalciferol is converted to calcitriol, the active form of Vitamin D, which regulates calcium and phosphorus metabolism in the body.
Indications
- Treatment of vitamin D deficiency
- Osteoporosis prevention
- Rickets prevention and treatment
- Hypoparathyroidism
Common Dosage Forms
- Oral capsules
- Oral drops
- Injectable solution
Typical Dosage
- 600-800 IU per day for adults
- 400 IU per day for infants
Pediatric Dosage
- 400-1000 IU per day depending on age
Geriatric Dosage
- Similar to adult dosage unless contraindicated due to specific conditions
Side Effects
- Hypercalcemia
- Renal stones
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia
- Vitamin D toxicity
- Hypersensitivity to Vitamin D
Pregnancy Category
- Category A - Adequate and well-controlled studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Lactation Safety
- Considered safe for use during lactation
Drug Interactions
- Thiazide diuretics
- Calcium supplements
- Digoxin
Overdose Symptoms
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Renal impairment
Antidote for Overdose
- Discontinue Vitamin D, provide supportive treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed from the intestine
- Distribution: Binds to Vitamin D binding protein and distributed to tissues
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D and then to active form calcitriol
- Excretion: Excreted mainly in bile
Precautions
- Monitor serum calcium levels regularly during therapy
- Caution in patients with renal impairment
Warnings
- High doses can lead to toxicity
- Not a substitute for a balanced diet and sunlight exposure