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Calciferol

Generic name: ergocalciferol (vitamin D2). [ER-goe-kal-SIF-e-role]
Brand names: Calcidol, Calciferol, and Drisdol
Drug class: vitamins

What is Calciferol?

Calciferol, vitamin A2. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption. Calciferol can be used to treat hypoparathyroidism, which is a condition in which the parathyroid glands are not functioning properly. Calciferol can also be used to treat rickets (a softening of bones due to vitamin D deficiency) or low levels of phosphate (hypophosphatemia). This medication guide does not list all possible uses of calciferol.

Side effects of Calciferol

If you encounter any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or swelling to face lips throat and face

If you experience:

  • Have You Feel Short of Breath and Chest Pain
  • Growth problems in children taking Calciferol;
  • Early signs of a vitamin D overdose include weakness, weight loss, muscle or bone pains, constipation, and vomiting.

You may experience less serious side effects or none at all. There may be other side effects. Call your physician immediately if any side effects become bothersome or require medical assistance.. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Similar/related drugs

Cholecalciferol, Ferrous Sulphate, Folic Acid, Ergocalciferol, Vitamin D3, Calcium arbonate, and  Calcitriol

Warnings

Calciferol should not be taken if you are allergic to vitamin D or have high calcium or vitamin D levels in your body. You also shouldn't take it if your body has a condition called malabsorption, which makes it difficult for you to absorb nutrients. Only use the recommended dosage of ergocalciferol. A dose that is too high can cause life-threatening or serious side effects.

Before you take this drug

Calciferol should not be taken if:

  • Hypervitaminosis
  • Hypercalcemia is a condition where there are high calcium levels in the blood.
  • Malabsorption is a condition where your body has difficulty absorbing nutrients from food.

Inform your physician immediately of any of the following issues:

  • Heart disease
  • Kidney disease
  • An electrolyte imbalance.

Ask your doctor before using Calciferol if you have allergies, diabetes, or phenylketonuria (PKU). Before using Calciferol, consult your doctor if you suffer from allergies, diabetes, or phenylketonuria. Too little vitamin D can harm an unborn child. Your dose requirements may change during pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking Calciferol. Ergocalciferol may pass through breast milk, causing side effects for the nursing infant. Inform your doctor if breastfeeding is a possibility.Avoid giving Calciferol without medical guidance. The dose your child receives will depend on their age, weight, diet, and other factors.

How to take Calciferol?

Read and follow all instructions that accompany your medication. Only use the recommended dosage of ergocalciferol. Calciferol can be taken with or without food.Measuring liquid medicine is important. Use the provided dosing device or a dose-measuring tool (not a spoon).Medical tests will be required frequently.As your condition improves, your doctor may reduce the dose of calcium. Be sure to follow the instructions for adjusting your dosage.You will be told by your doctor for how long you should take this medication. Calciferol is only one part of an overall treatment plan that may include dietary changes, calcium and vitamin supplementation, and other treatments. You should follow your doctor's advice.Find out what foods to eat in order to get enough vitamin D and calcium. You may need to adjust your calcium dosage as you change your diet.Store away from moisture, heat, and light at room temperature.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses of a medicine at the same time.

What happens if I overdose?

Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. A vitamin D overdose can have serious and life-threatening effects.Overdose symptoms include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite or thirst, urinating less or more than usual, body pains, stiffness, or confusion.

What should be avoided?

Before taking any antacids, multivitamins, or mineral supplements while taking Calciferol, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interaction with other drug

Calciferol should be taken at least two hours before or after other medications.

Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications, including:

  • A diuretic, or "water pill,"
  • Mineral oil

This list is incomplete. Calciferol may be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal products. This list does not include all possible drug interactions.