If you’re here, then you probably Google’d: prescription vitamin d2 side effects.
Side Effects
by mouth as directed. Follow all directions on the product package. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take as directed by your doctor.
Your dosage is based on your medical condition, amount of sun exposure, diet, age, and response to treatment. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
If you are taking the rapidly-dissolving tablets, dry your hands before handling the medication. Place each dose on the tongue, allow it to dissolve completely, and then swallow it with saliva or water. You do not need to take this medication with water.
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). Ask your doctor or pharmacist how long you should wait between doses and for help finding a dosing schedule that will work with all your medications. Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it.
To help you remember, take it at the same time each day if you are taking it once a day. If you are taking this medication only once a week, remember to take it on the same day each week. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right awa.
What Is Ergocalciferol?
Ergocalciferol is vitamin D2. 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).
For The Consumer
Applies to ergocalciferol: oral capsule, oral capsule liquid filled, oral liquid, oral solution, oral tablet
Side effects requiring immediate medical attention
Along with its needed effects, ergocalciferol (the active ingredient contained in Vitamin D2) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to ergocalciferol: compounding powder, injectable solution, oral capsule, oral solution, oral tablet
Metabolic
Rare (less than 0.1%): Hypercalcemia
Frequency not reported: Hypervitaminosis D[Ref]
Hypervitaminosis D is characterized by: 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; intellectual disability; widespread calcification of the soft tissues, including the heart, blood vessels, renal tubules, and lungs; bone demineralization (osteoporosis) in adults; decline in the average rate of linear growth and increased mineralization of bones in infants and children (dwarfism), vague aches, stiffness, and weakness; nausea, anorexia, constipation; and mild acidosis, anemia, and weight loss.
[Ref]
Genitourinary
Rare (less than 0.1%): Hypercalciuria[Ref]
Dermatologic
Rare (less than 0.1%): Pruritus, rash, urticaria[Ref]
Frequently asked questions
References 1. Cerner Multum, Inc. “UK Summary of Product Characteristics.”. Sanofi-aventis, Bridgewater, NJ.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Some side effects may not be reported. Medical Disclaimer.