About vitamin d
Vitamin D (fat-soluble vitamin)
Used for
- Treats or prevents vitamin D deficiency
- Supports calcium absorption and bone health
Usual adult dose
For deficiency, often 50,000 IU once weekly for 6–8 weeks, then maintenance dosing; regimens vary.
Usual dose in children
For deficiency, dosing depends on age and severity; clinicians may use weekly treatment courses followed by maintenance.
Common side effects
- High blood calcium
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Weakness or increased thirst
Important warnings
- Excessive use can cause dangerously high calcium levels and kidney damage.
- Use cautiously with kidney disease, high calcium, or a history of kidney stones.
- Treatment may require blood tests to monitor vitamin D and calcium.
Pregnancy
Use only when needed to treat or prevent deficiency; excessive doses may be harmful.
Breastfeeding
Generally compatible at recommended doses; excessive doses can raise calcium levels in parent or infant.
Interactions
- Thiazide diuretics may increase high-calcium risk.
- Digoxin: high calcium may increase abnormal heart rhythm risk.
- Orlistat and bile-acid sequestrants can reduce vitamin D absorption.
- Some seizure medicines and steroids can lower vitamin D levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.