Precautions
Medications containing ergocalciferol: ergocalciferol systemic. Brand names: Vitamin D2, Drisdol, Calciferol, Calcidol. Drug class(es): vitamins. Ergocalciferol systemic is used in the treatment of: Familial Hypophosphatemia. Hypocalcemia.
What is the brand name for ergocalciferol?
Drug class(es): vitamins. Ergocalciferol systemic is used in the treatment of: Familial Hypophosphatemia. Hypocalcemia. Hypoparathyroidism. Hypophosphatemia. Osteomalacia. Renal Osteodystrophy.
What is ergocalciferol systemic used to treat?
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. Ergocalciferol is used to treat hypoparathyroidism (decreased functioning of the parathyroid glands). Ergocalciferol is also used to treat rickets (softening of the bones caused by vitamin D deficiency) or low levels of phosphate in the blood (hypophosphatemia).
What is the difference between ergocalciferol and vitamin D?
Each capsule contains 1.25 mg (50,000 International Units vitamin D) of Ergocalciferol, USP, in an edible vegetable oil. Ergocalciferol, also called vitamin D 2, is 9, 10-secoergosta-5, 7, 10 (19), 22-tetraen-3-ol, (3ß, 5Z, 7E, 22E)-; (C 28 H 44 O) with a molecular weight of 396.65, and has the following structural formula:
What is the molecular weight of ergocalciferol?
What type of vitamin D is ergocalciferol?
Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is a form of vitamin D that's available as a dietary supplement. Vitamin D allows your body to absorb more calcium and phosphate, which is important to keep your bones healthy and strong.
What is the drug ergocalciferol used for?
Ergocalciferol is used to treat hypoparathyroidism (decreased functioning of the parathyroid glands). Ergocalciferol is also used to treat rickets (softening of the bones caused by vitamin D deficiency) or low levels of phosphate in the blood (hypophosphatemia).
Is ergocalciferol a steroid?
Yes, Ergocalciferol is a steroid that belongs to the class of organic compounds of Vitamin D.
What is the common name for ergocalciferol?
Vitamin D (ergocalciferol-D2, cholecalciferol-D3, alfacalcidol) is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your body absorb calcium and phosphorus.
Why do doctors prescribe vitamin D2 instead of D3?
You may wonder why doctors prescribe vitamin D2 instead of D3, if vitamin D3 appears to be more potent than vitamin D2. The vitamin D prescription you get from your doctor is typically for 50,000 units of vitamin D2. Vitamin D2 is indicated to treat calcium disorders and parathyroid disorders.
What is the difference between vitamin D and vitamin D2?
The two forms of vitamin D differ depending on their food sources. Vitamin D3 is only found in animal-sourced foods, whereas D2 mainly comes from plant sources and fortified foods. Since vitamin D2 is cheaper to produce, it's the most common form in fortified foods.
Why did my doctor prescribe ergocalciferol?
Ergocalciferol is used in the treatment of hypoparathyroidism (condition in which the body does not produce enough parathyroid hormone), refractory rickets (softening and weakening of bones that does not respond to treatment), and familial hypophosphatemia (rickets or osteomalacia caused by an inherited condition with ...
How long does ergocalciferol stay in your system?
This means that after 15 days, half of the vitamin D from an oral supplement has left the body and that 30 days after a dose of vitamin D only 25 percent of the vitamin remains.
Is ergocalciferol same as vitamin D3?
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is produced by the human body in response to sunlight and is also available through dietary sources, such as fish. In contrast, vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is not produced in the human body, but is created by exposing certain plant-derived materials to ultraviolet light.
When is the best time to take ergocalciferol?
It may be best to take ergocalciferol after a meal, but you may take this medicine with or without food. Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). You will need frequent medical tests.
Is ergocalciferol vitamin D2 or D3?
Supplemental vitamin D is available in 2 distinct forms: ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3).
What are the benefits of taking vitamin D2?
Vitamin D (ergocalciferol-D2, cholecalciferol-D3, alfacalcidol) is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your body absorb calcium and phosphorus. Having the right amount of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus is important for building and keeping strong bones.
Is ergocalciferol same as vitamin D3?
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is produced by the human body in response to sunlight and is also available through dietary sources, such as fish. In contrast, vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is not produced in the human body, but is created by exposing certain plant-derived materials to ultraviolet light.
When is the best time to take ergocalciferol?
It may be best to take ergocalciferol after a meal, but you may take this medicine with or without food. Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). You will need frequent medical tests.
What causes a vitamin D deficiency?
(Rickets; Osteomalacia) Vitamin D deficiency is most commonly caused by a lack of exposure to sunlight. Some disorders can also cause the deficiency. The most common cause is lack of exposure to sunlight, usually when the diet is deficient in vitamin D, but certain disorders can also cause the deficiency.
Is ergocalciferol vitamin D2 or D3?
Supplemental vitamin D is available in 2 distinct forms: ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3).
What is ergocalciferol used for?
Expand Section. Ergocalciferol is used in the treatment of hypoparathyroidism (condition in which the body does not produce enough parathyroid hormone), refractory rickets (softening and weakening of bones that does not respond to treatment), and familial hypophosphatemia (rickets or osteomalacia caused by an inherited condition with ...
What to do if you are allergic to ergocalciferol?
tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ergocalciferol, aspirin, tartrazine (a yellow dye in some processed foods and drugs), any other medications, or any of the ingredients in ergocalcifer ol capsules. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
Can you chew ergocalciferol?
Take ergocalciferol exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the capsules whole; do not chew or crush them. Your doctor may change your dose depending on your body's response to ergocalciferol.
Can you take ergocalciferol if you have high calcium?
tell your doctor if you have high blood levels of calcium and vitamin D, an abnormal sensitivity to high levels of vitamin D, or if you have malabsorption syndrome (problems absorbing food). Your doctor will probably tell you not to take ergocalciferol.
Can you take low phosphate diet with ergocalciferol?
Your doctor may also prescribe a low-phosphate diet during your treatment with ergocalciferol. Follow these directions carefully.
Does Ergocalciferol cause muscle aches?
drowsiness. muscle aches, stiffness, and weakness. Ergocalciferol may cause other side effects.
What is Ergocalciferol used for?
INDICATIONS AND USAGE. Ergocalciferol Capsules are indicated for use in the treatment of hypoparathyroidism, refractory rickets, also known as vitamin D resistant rickets, and familial hypophosphatemia.
How many IU of vitamin D is in 1.25 mg of ergocalciferol?
Capsules of 1.25 mg (50,000 IU vitamin D) of Ergocalciferol, USP are clear green oval softgel capsules filled with a clear to pale yellow
Is ergocalciferol contraindicated?
Ergocalciferol Capsules are contraindicated in patients with hypercalcemia, malabsorption syndrome, abnormal sensitivity to the toxic effects of vitamin D, and hypervitaminosis D.
Is ergocalciferol soluble in water?
Ergocalciferol is a white, colorless crystal, insoluble in water, soluble in organic solvents, and slightly soluble in vegetable oils. It is affected by air and by light. Ergosterol or provitamin D 2 is found in plants and yeast and has no antirachitic activity. There are more than 10 substances belonging to a group of steroid compounds, ...
Can elderly people take Ergocalciferol?
Clinical studies of Ergocalciferol Capsules did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. A few published reports have suggested that the absorption of orally administered vitamin D may be attenuated in elderly compared to younger, individuals. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
Is ergocalciferol safe for nursing?
Caution should be exercised when Ergocalciferol Capsules are administered to a nursing woman. In a mother given large doses of vitamin D, 25-hydroxycholecalciferol appeared in the milk and caused hypercalcemia in her child. Monitoring of the infant's serum calcium concentration is required in that case (Goldberg, 1972).
How many units are in a mcg of ergocalciferol?
Each mg of ergocalciferol is equivalent to 40,000 USP units; each mcg of the drug is equivalent to 40 USP units.
What enzymes are involved in metabolizing ergocalciferol?
In the liver, metabolized to 25-hydroxy derivatives by vitamin D 25-hydroxylase enzyme; hepatic microsomal enzymes may be involved in degrading ergocalciferol metabolites. Further metabolized in kidneys to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.
Is ergocalciferol available in the US?
Has been administered IM † in some patients (e.g., those with GI, liver, or biliary disease associated with malabsorption of vitamin D analogs); however, ergocalciferol injection is no longer commercially available in the US.
Can ergocalciferol cause hypercalcemia?
Acute or chronic administration of excessive doses of vitamin D analogs or enhanced responsiveness to physiologic amounts of ergocalciferol or cholecalciferol may lead to hypervitaminosis D manifested by hypercalcemia.
What is ergocalciferol?
Generic Name. Ergocalciferol is an inactivated vitamin D analog. 1 It is synthesized by some plants in the presence of UVB light. 6 The production of ergocalciferol was prompted by the identification of dietary deficiency, more specifically vitamin D, as the main causative factor for the development of rickets.
When was ergocalciferol first isolated?
Ergocalciferol was isolated for the first time from yeast in 1931 and its structure was elucidated in 1932. 7. Ergocalciferol is considered the first vitamin D analog and is differentiated from cholecalciferol by the presence of a double bond between C22 and C23 and the presence of a methyl group at C24.
What is the medication for rickets?
Pharmacology. Indication. Ergocalciferol is indicated for the treatment of hypoparathyroidism, refractory rickets, and familial hypophosphatemia. Label. Hypoparathyroidism is the result of inadequate parathyroid hormone production that occurs due to the presence of damage or removal of the parathyroid glands.
How long does ergocalciferol stay in circulation?
Ergocalciferol can be found circulation for 1-2 days. This quick turnover is presented due to hepatic conversion and uptake by fat and muscle cells where it is transformed to the active form. 6
Where is ergocalciferol converted to vitamin D?
As part of the minor metabolism, ergocalciferol is transformed into 25-hydroxyvitamin D in the liver by the activity of D-25-hydroxylase and CYP2R1. As well, the formation of 24 (R),25dihydroxyvitamin D is performed mainly in the kidneys by the action of 25- (OH)D-1-hydroxylase and 25- (OH)D-24-hydroxylase. 7.
Where is ergocalciferol absorbed?
Ergocalciferol is absorbed in the intestine and carried to the liver in chylomicrons. Its intestinal absorption does not present limitations unless the presence of conditions related to fat malabsorption. 6 However, for absorption to take place, the presence of bile is required. 13
Is ergocalciferol stored in fat?
The amount of circulating ergocalciferol is very limited as this compound is rapidly stored in fat tissue such as adipose tissue, liver and muscle. This is very obvious in reports that indicate that circulating ergocalciferol is significantly reduced in obese patients. 6
What vitamins are similar to calcitriol?
Check the labels on all your prescription and nonprescription/herbal products (such as antacids, laxatives, vitamins) because they may contain calcium, magnesium, phosphate, or vitamin D . Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely. Vitamin D is very similar to calcitriol.
Does orlistat affect vitamin D?
Certain medications (bile acid sequestrants such as cholestyramine / colestipol, mineral oil, orlistat) can decrease the absorption of vitamin D. Take your doses of these medications as far as possible from your doses of vitamin D (at least 2 hours apart, longer if possible).
Product (s) containing ergocalciferol
Brand names: Vitamin D2, Drisdol, Calciferol, Calcidol Drug class (es): vitamins Ergocalciferol systemic is used in the treatment of:
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
How is this medicine (Ergocalciferol Solution) best taken?
Use ergocalciferol solution as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.
Who to talk to about ergocalciferol?
Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about ergocalciferol solution, please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
Does ergocalciferol cause side effects?
What are some other side effects of Ergocalciferol Solution? All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.
Can you take ergocalciferol with all your medications?
You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take ergocalciferol solution with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.
Medical uses
Vitamin D (ergocalciferol-D2, cholecalciferol-D3, alfacalcidol) is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your body absorb calcium and phosphorus. Having the right amount of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus is important for building and keeping strong bones. Vitamin D is used to treat and prevent bone disorders (such as rickets, osteomalacia). Vitamin D is made by the body when skin is exposed to sunlight.
May Treat: Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis · Hypocalcemia · Hypoparathyroidism · Osteomalacia · Osteoporosis and more
Alternate Brand Names: Calciferol · Drisdol
Drug Class: Vitamins - D Derivatives
Availability: Prescription sometimes needed
Lactation: Does not adversely affect lactation
May Treat: Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis · Hypocalcemia · Hypoparathyroidism · Osteomalacia · Osteoporosis and more
Alternate Brand Names: Calciferol · Drisdol
Drug Class: Vitamins - D Derivatives
Availability: Prescription sometimes needed
Lactation: Does not adversely affect lactation
Alcohol: Limit intake while taking this medication
Driving: May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution
- Read directions carefully before start of therapy
- Ask RPh if your brand is best taken with food.
- If on bile resins, take drug 2 hours before/after
- Read directions carefully before start of therapy
- Ask RPh if your brand is best taken with food.
- If on bile resins, take drug 2 hours before/after
- Call MD for constipation, vomiting/pain/drowsiness.
- Check warnings on OTC medications.
- Discuss with MD your need for calcium and vitamin D
- For capsule products : Take as directed.
- For drops products : Take at the same time(s) daily as directed. Measure dose using a dosing spoon/cup/syringe.
Administration
Treatment
- Ergocalciferol is used in the treatment of hypoparathyroidism (condition in which the body does not produce enough parathyroid hormone), refractory rickets (softening and weakening of bones that does not respond to treatment), and familial hypophosphatemia (rickets or osteomalacia caused by an inherited condition with a decreased ability to break d...
Risks
- Ergocalciferol comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken once daily. Take ergocalciferol at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ergocalciferol exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescr…
Prevention
- Your doctor may change your dose depending on your body's response to ergocalciferol. Ergocalciferol will work only if you also get the right amount of calcium from the foods you eat. If you get too much calcium from foods, you may experience serious side effects from taking ergocalciferol. If you do not get enough calcium from foods, ergocalciferol will not control your c…
Diagnosis
- Ergocalciferol may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication. If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online (http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
Preparation
- Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from light, excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resista…
Description
- Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests before and during your treatment with ergocalciferol.
Clinical Pharmacology
- It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Indications and Usage
Contraindications
- The in vivosynthesis of the major biologically active metabolites of vitamin D occurs in two steps. The first hydroxylation of Ergocalciferol takes place in the liver (to 25-hydroxyvitamin D) and the second in the kidneys (to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D). Vitamin D metabolites promote the active absorption of calcium and phosphorus by the small intestine, thus elevating serum calcium and …
Warnings
- Ergocalciferol Capsules are indicated for use in the treatment of hypoparathyroidism, refractory rickets, also known as vitamin D resistant rickets, and familial hypophosphatemia.
Prcautions
- Ergocalciferol Capsules are contraindicated in patients with hypercalcemia, malabsorption syndrome, abnormal sensitivity to the toxic effects of vitamin D, and hypervitaminosis D.
Adverse Reactions
- Hypersensitivity to vitamin D may be one etiologic factor in infants with idiopathic hypercalcemia. In these cases vitamin D must be strictly restricted. Keep out of the reach of children.
Overdosage
- General
Vitamin D administration from fortified foods, dietarysupplements, self-administered and prescription drug sources should be evaluated. Therapeutic dosage should be readjusted as soon as there is clinical improvement. Dosage levels must be individualized and great care exercised … - Drug Interactions
Mineral oil interferes with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins,including vitamin D preparations. Administration of thiazide diuretics to hypoparathyroid patients who are concurrently being treated with Ergocalciferol Capsules may cause hypercalcemia.
Dosage and Administration
- Hypervitaminosis D is characterized by effects on the following organ system: Renal:Impairment of renal function with polyuria, nocturia, polydipsia, hypercalciuria, reversible azotemia, hypertension, nephrocalcinosis, generalized vascular calcification, or irreversible renal insufficiency which may result in death. CNS:Mental retardation. Soft Tissues:Widespread calcifi…
How Supplied
- The effects of administered vitamin D can persist for two or more months after cessation of treatment. Hypervitaminosis D is characterized by: 1. Hypercalcemia with anorexia, nausea, weakness, weight loss, vague aches and stiffness, constipation, mental retardation, anemia, and mild acidosis. 2. Impairment of renal function with polyuria, nocturia, polydipsia, hypercalciuria, r…