Vitamin D

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
	Cholecalciferol, Calcitriol, Alfacalcidol or Paricalcitol

Vitamin D - What is it for

Vitamin D (also known as Cholecalciferol for Vitamin D3) is required by the body for absorption of calcium and in maintaining bone structure. It is effective for preventing osteoporosis and fractures when given together with calcium.

Vitamin D is also used to treat low calcium levels in the blood (hypocalcemia) and poor parathyroid function in chronic kidney disease (CKD). The parathyroid glands control the body's calcium levels.

Vitamin D in its active form like Calcitriol, Alfacalcidol or Paricalcitol are effective for the treatment of poor parathyroid function in CKD.

Vitamin D - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Vitamin D cause?

Common side effects include constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and weakness.

Inform your healthcare professional if the side effects do not go away

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
Difficulty in breathing
Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

Before taking Vitamin D , what precautions must I follow?

Before starting on this medication, inform your healthcare professional if you:

Are allergic to this medication, or any of the other ingredients in this medication
Have a medical condition called Hypercalcemia where there is high calcium levels in the body
Have a medical condition called Hypervitaminosis D where there is high vitamin D levels in the body
Are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Vitamin D ?

Avoid taking multivitamin supplements and aluminium containing products (e.g. found in some antacids) with this medication.

Vitamin D - Dosage and How to Use

How should Vitamin D be used?

Take this medication as prescribed by your healthcare professional.
Do not stop taking your medications without checking with your healthcare professional.

For Cholecalciferol and Calcitriol tablets: You may take this medication with or without food.

For Alfacalcidol: You may take this medication with or without food.

For Capsules: It must be swallowed whole, unless directed otherwise
For Oral drops: Shake the bottle well before use and measure drops required carefully

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only the usual dose. Do not double your dose or use extra medication to make up for the missed dose.