Warnings
It’s typically used to treat people who have a vitamin D deficiency or related disorder, such as rickets or osteomalacia. Some individuals who might need extra vitamin D include:
Older adults
Breastfed babies
People with darker skin
Obese individuals (or those who’ve had gastric bypass surgery)
People with conditions such as cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease, or liver disease
Vitamin D3 may be used with different supplements or medicines to treat or prevent other condition.
Contents
These nutrients are needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy.
Government advice is that everyone should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter. People at high risk of not getting enough vitamin D, all children aged 1 to 4, and all babies (unless they’re having more than 500ml of infant formula a day) should take a daily supplement throughout the year. Information: There have been some reports about vitamin D reducing the risk of coronavirus (COVID-19).
But there is currently not enough evidence to support taking vitamin D solely to prevent or treat COVID-19.
Side Effects
Cation by mouth with food. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. If you are taking the chewable form of this medication, chew thoroughly before swallowing. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets.
Also, do not split the tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.
Calcium supplements come in different forms that contain different amounts of calcium/vitamin D. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to help select the best product for you. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attentio.
Interactions
by mouth as directed.
Alfacalcidol is usually taken with food. Follow all directions on the product package. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take as directed by your doctor.
Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If you are taking the chewable tablet or wafers, chew the medication thoroughly before swallowing. Do not swallow whole wafers.
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).
It may be easiest to take vitamin D at bedtime if you are also taking these other medications. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day if you are taking it once a day. It may help to mark your calendar with a reminder.
Do not take other supplements/vitamins unless ordered by your doctor.