| drug name | Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2) |
| classification | Vitamin D supplement |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Ergocalciferol is absorbed in the small intestine, similar to other fat-soluble vitamins, and absorption is enhanced by dietary fat. | | distribution | Vitamin D2 is distributed throughout the body, with high concentrations in the liver and kidneys. | | metabolism | Ergocalciferol is metabolized in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and then in the kidneys to its active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol). | | excretion | Vitamin D and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the bile and feces. |
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| suggested dosage | | description | Dosage depends on individual needs and the underlying condition. A healthcare professional should determine the appropriate dose. | | typical doses range | Commonly ranges from 400 to 50,000 IU daily, or even higher in specific conditions. | | patient specific considerations | Age, weight, and the patient's current vitamin D level should be considered for individual dosing. |
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| indications | | 1 | Prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency | | 2 | Rickets in children | | 3 | Osteomalacia in adults | | 4 | Osteoporosis prevention and treatment | | 5 | Hypocalcemia (low blood calcium) |
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| safety in pregnancy | Ergocalciferol is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used at appropriate doses prescribed by a healthcare professional. However, high doses can be harmful. It's crucial to discuss dosage with the doctor. Monitor vitamin D levels throughout pregnancy. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Ergocalciferol is considered safe in breastfeeding mothers when used at appropriate doses. Consult with a healthcare professional. |
| side effects | | 1 | Nausea | | 2 | Vomiting | | 3 | Loss of appetite | | 4 | Headache | | 5 | Fatigue | | 6 | Constipation | | 7 | High blood calcium (hypercalcemia) is a potential serious side effect at high doses. This can lead to kidney stones and other complications. | | 8 | Other rare side effects are possible and should be reported to a physician. |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Hypercalcemia | | 2 | Kidney disease | | 3 | Known allergy to ergocalciferol or vitamin D. |
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| interactions | | 1 | Certain medications (e.g., thiazide diuretics, glucocorticoids, or some anti-epileptics) can affect vitamin D metabolism or absorption. | | 2 | Monitor for drug interactions with other medications. | | 3 | Avoid taking with excessive calcium intake without consulting a doctor. | | 4 | Excessive consumption of vitamin A can lead to antagonistic effects on vitamin D action. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Do not self-medicate with high doses of ergocalciferol. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any vitamin D supplementation. | | 2 | Always follow the prescribed dosage. | | 3 | Monitor blood calcium and vitamin D levels regularly, especially with long-term use. | | 4 | Do not exceed the recommended dosage. | | 5 | Inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking |
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| additional informations | | 1 | Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health. | | 2 | Vitamin D deficiency can lead to serious health problems, including osteoporosis and rickets. |
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| patient specific details | | age | 25 years | | weight | 70 kg | | note | These details are for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. |
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