Ergocalciferol
Ergocalciferol Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Ergocalciferol is a brand name. Its generic name is Ergocalciferol.
Ergocalciferol Introduction
Ergocalciferol is a form of vitamin D2 or calciferol. It is normally used to treat dietary deficiencies of vitamin D as well as for metabolic bone diseases when the body cannot absorb or produce enough of the vitamin and is thus deficient. Vitamin D is naturally obtained from sun exposure, certain foods such as fatty fish, as well as through vitamin D supplements. It is also available as an over-the-counter medication.
Ergocalciferol Uses for
Ergocalciferol is often used to treat deficiencies in vitamin D, such as for vitamin D-resistant osteoporosis, rickets, and other bone disorders. It is also often used to reduce the risk of falls and fractures in elderly patients with low serum vitamin D levels. In addition, it is used to treat hypoparathyroidism, a condition where the body does not produce enough hormone to properly control calcium levels in the blood. It can also be used to raise calcium in newborns who are vitamin D deficient.
Mechanism of Action
Ergocalciferol works by helping the body absorb calcium and phosphorus from the intestine and kidneys. By doing so, it helps promote healthy bone development. It also plays an important role in regulating the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the bloodstream, allowing for normal bone growth and development. Lastly, ergocalciferol helps protect against certain types of cancer.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
The time it takes for ergocalciferol to work varies from person to person. Generally, it takes a few weeks for ergocalciferol to start working. It is important to take it as prescribed, and to follow-up with your doctor to monitor its effectiveness. If you are taking ergocalciferol for a bone disorder, it may take several months for it to start improving symptoms.
Absorption, Route of Elimination, and Dosage
Ergocalciferol is mainly absorbed from the small intestine. Its route of elimination is primarily through kidney excretion. The dosage of ergocalciferol can vary depending on the patient needs, but it is generally recommended to start at 25,000-50,000 IU once weekly for four weeks or 1,000-2,000 IU once daily. The dosage can then be adjusted according to the patient's response and the blood levels of vitamin D.
Administration & Side Effect
Ergocalciferol is typically taken as an oral liquid or capsule. The most common side effects of taking ergocalciferol may include nausea, constipation, stomach pain, and allergic reactions. Also, long-term use of ergocalciferol may lead to an elevated risk of certain cancers, hypercalcemia, and even death.
Toxicity & Precaution
Ergocalciferol is considered to be toxic in large doses. It is important to have regular blood tests to monitor vitamin D levels while taking ergocalciferol as levels that become too high can be dangerous. For this same reason, it is essential to check with your doctor before taking any vitamin D supplement.
Interaction & Disease Interaction
Ergocalciferol may interact with certain medications and should not be taken with antacids, calcium supplements, and diuretics. It is important to consult with your doctor before taking any medications. It may also negatively interact with certain diseases such as diabetes, heart failure, kidney and liver disease, and hyperparathyroidism. Please consult your doctor before taking ergocalciferol if you have any of these conditions.
Drug Interaction, Food Interactions, Pregnancy Use, Lactation Use, Acute Overdose, Contraindication, Use Direction, Storage Conditions, Volume of Distribution, Half Life, and Clearance
Ergocalciferol can interact with certain medications, so it is important to check with your doctor before taking any medications. It is not recommended for use in pregnant or nursing women. There is no specific treatment for overdose, however, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Contraindications include hypercalcemia, atherosclerosis, renal failure, and sarcoidosis. It is important to follow the usage directions on the bottle and to store ergocalciferol in a cool, dry place. The volume of distribution is approximately 15L, half-life is 3-10 days, and clearance is via the kidneys.
Here you find in details version of Ergocalciferol
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Ergocalciferol
1. What is Ergocalciferol?
Ergocalciferol is a form of Vitamin D2, with the chemical name of 9,10-Secoergosta-5,7,10,22-tetraen-3-ol. It is a vitamin supplement that is used to treat or prevent vitamin D deficiency.
2. What is Ergocalciferol used for?
Ergocalciferol is typically used to treat or prevent vitamin D deficiency. It can also be used to treat conditions caused by vitamin D deficiency, such as rickets in children, and osteomalacia and osteoporosis in adults.
3. What are the side effects of Ergocalciferol?
Ergocalciferol is generally well tolerated, and most people do not experience any side effects. Possible side effects include constipation, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, weakness, and weight loss.
4. What is the recommended dosage of Ergocalciferol?
The recommended dosage of Ergocalciferol depends on the patient’s age, medical history, and other factors. It is important to speak to a doctor before taking Ergocalciferol to determine the correct dosage.
5. Is Ergocalciferol safe?
Ergocalciferol is generally considered safe for the majority of adults. In rare cases, it may cause side effects that can be harmful. It is important to speak to a doctor before taking Ergocalciferol to ensure it is right for you.
6. How long does it take for Ergocalciferol to work?
It can take several weeks for Ergocalciferol to begin working. It is important to take Ergocalciferol as prescribed and to follow up with a doctor for regular monitoring.
7. What should I avoid while taking Ergocalciferol?
It is important to avoid taking other medications while taking Ergocalciferol without speaking to a doctor first. Certain foods and supplements may also interact with Ergocalciferol, so it is important to speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking anything.
8. Does Ergocalciferol have any drug interactions?
Yes, Ergocalciferol can interact with certain medications and supplements. It is important to speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication or supplement, to ensure that it is safe to take them together.
9. What should I do if I miss a dose of Ergocalciferol?
If you miss a dose of Ergocalciferol, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. It is important not to take a double dose of Ergocalciferol.
10. Is Ergocalciferol the same as Vitamin D?
No, Ergocalciferol is a form of Vitamin D2, and Vitamin D is a nutrient that is found in a variety of foods. Vitamin D can also be taken as a supplement, which is available as both Vitamin D2 or Vitamin D3. The two forms are not interchangeable.
11. Does Ergocalciferol help with weight loss?
No, Ergocalciferol is not known to help with weight loss. It is important to speak to a doctor before taking Ergocalciferol to ensure that it is appropriate for your individual needs.
12. Is Ergocalciferol available over-the-counter?
No, Ergocalciferol is only available by prescription. It is important to speak to a doctor before taking Ergocalciferol to ensure that it is appropriate for your individual needs.
13. Does Ergocalciferol cause headaches?
In rare cases, Ergocalciferol may cause headaches. It is important to speak to a doctor if any symptoms develop while taking Ergocalciferol.
14. Does Ergocalciferol need to be taken with food?
No, Ergocalciferol does not necessarily need to be taken with food or meals. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking Ergocalciferol.
15. Is Ergocalciferol safe during pregnancy?
Yes, Ergocalciferol is usually considered safe during pregnancy, but it is important to speak to a doctor before taking any medication or supplement while pregnant or breastfeeding.
16. Is Ergocalciferol the same as Vitamin D3?
No, Ergocalciferol is Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3 is another form of Vitamin D. The two forms are not interchangeable and should not be taken together.
17. Should I take Ergocalciferol with other vitamin supplements?
It is important to speak to a doctor before taking Ergocalciferol with any other medications or supplements. Certain combinations may not be safe and could cause harm.
18. Can Ergocalciferol be taken long-term?
In most cases, Ergocalciferol can safely be taken long-term as directed by a doctor. Your doctor will be able to advise on the correct dosage and duration of treatment.
19. Does Ergocalciferol cause weight gain?
No, Ergocalciferol is not known to cause weight gain. However, it may cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting, which can lead to weight loss.
20. Does Ergocalciferol cause constipation?
Yes, constipation is a possible side effect of Ergocalciferol. It is important to drink plenty of water and eat high-fiber foods while taking Ergocalciferol to reduce the risk of constipation.
21. Does Ergocalciferol need to be refrigerated?
No, Ergocalciferol does not need to be refrigerated. It should be kept away from heat and moisture, though, and should not be stored in direct sunlight.
22. Does Ergocalciferol interfere with blood tests?
No, Ergocalciferol does not typically interfere with any blood tests. However, it is important to inform your doctor if you are taking Ergocalciferol before having any tests.
23. Is Ergocalciferol used to treat high cholesterol?
No, Ergocalciferol is not used to treat high cholesterol. It is important to speak to a doctor before taking Ergocalciferol to ensure that it is appropriate for your individual needs.
24. Is Ergocalciferol helpful for skin health?
Yes, Ergocalciferol can be beneficial for skin health. It helps to promote the formation of new skin cells, which can result in healthy, glowing skin.
25. Can I take Ergocalciferol with other vitamins?
It is important to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before taking Ergocalciferol with any other vitamins or supplements. Certain combinations may not be safe and could cause harm.
26. Is Ergocalciferol better than Vitamin D3?
No, Ergocalciferol and Vitamin D3 are both forms of Vitamin D. The two forms are not interchangeable, and it is important to speak to a doctor before taking either one.
27. Is Ergocalciferol the same as cholecalciferol?
No, cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) is a different form of Vitamin D than Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2). The two forms are not interchangeable, and it is important to speak to a doctor before taking either one.
28. Is Ergocalciferol used to treat psoriasis?
Yes, Ergocalciferol can be used to treat psoriasis as it helps to regulate the cells in the skin. It is important to speak to a doctor first to ensure it is safe to use Ergocalciferol for psoriasis.
29. Is Ergocalciferol used to treat cancer?
No, Ergocalciferol is not used to treat cancer. It is important to speak to a doctor before taking Ergocalciferol to ensure that it is right for you.
30. How much Ergocalciferol should I take?
The correct dosage of Ergocalciferol depends on the patient’s age, medical history, and other factors. It is important to speak to a doctor before taking Ergocalciferol to determine the correct dosage.