What is Drisdol?
Drisdol contains vitamin D2. Vitamin D is important for calcium absorption. Drisdol treats hypoparathyroidism, which is a condition in which the parathyroid glands are not functioning properly. Drisdol can also be used to treat rickets (softening in the bones due to vitamin D deficiency) or low levels of phosphate (hypophosphatemia). Drisdol can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Drisdol
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop taking Drisdol immediately and contact your doctor.
- Are You Feeling Short of Breath and Suffer from Chest Pain
- Growth problems in a child who is taking Drisdol
- Early signs of a vitamin D overdose include weakness, weight loss, muscle or bone pains, constipation, nausea, and vomiting.
Your side effects could range from less serious to none at all. There may be other potential side effects. For any medical advice regarding side effects, call your physician. Alternatively, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report adverse events.
Warnings
Drisdol should not be taken if you are allergic to vitamin D or have a high level of calcium or vitamin D in your system. 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
Drisdol should not be taken if:
- Hypervitaminosis () D;
- Hypercalcemia is the term used to describe high calcium levels in your blood.
- Malabsorption is a condition where your body has difficulty absorbing nutrients from food.
Inform your physician of any of the following issues:
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- An electrolyte imbalance.
Ask your doctor before using Drisdol if you have allergies, diabetes, or phenylketonuria (PKU). Before using Drisdol, 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. You should tell your doctor if Drisdol is causing you to become pregnant. Ergocalciferol may pass through breast milk, causing side effects for the nursing infant. Inform your doctor if breastfeeding is a possibility. Never take Drisdol without consulting a doctor. The dose for your child will vary depending on their age, weight, and diet.
How to take Drisdol?
Read and adhere to all instructions included with your medication, only using the recommended dosage of Ergocalciferol. Drisdol may be taken with or without food. Measuring liquid medicine accurately is vitally important. Use either the provided dosing device or dose-measuring tool (not a spoon). Medical tests will be required frequently. As your condition improves, your doctor may reduce the dose of Drisdol. 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. Drisdol 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 Drisdol dosage as you change your diet. Store away from moisture, heat, and light at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If it is nearly time for your next dose, try not to double up on this medicine by taking two at the same time. This could result in serious adverse side effects.
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, stiffness, or body aches.
What should be avoided?
Before taking Drisdol, consult your doctor or pharmacist about any multivitamins or mineral supplements.
Interaction with other drug
Drisdol should be taken at least two hours before or after taking other medications.
Tell your doctor about your other medications, including:
- A diuretic, or "water pill".
- Mineral lubricant
This list is incomplete. Drisdol may be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbs. This list does not include all possible drug interactions.
