Indicated for: calcium deficiency; osteoporosis
Route of administration: oral
Substance: cholecalciferol (vitamin)
ATC: A11CC05 (Alimentary tract and metabolism | Vitamin A and D, including combinations of the two | Vitamin D and analogues)
Cholecalciferol, also known as vitamin D3, is a form of vitamin D used for the prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency. It is essential for bone health as it aids in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from food, preventing conditions such as rickets in children and osteomalacia or osteoporosis in adults.
Cholecalciferol is indicated in cases of vitamin D deficiency, for fracture prevention, and in the treatment of hypocalcemia associated with hypoparathyroidism. It is available in capsules, tablets, oral drops, or injectable solutions.
Side effects are rare but may include nausea, constipation, excessive thirst, or hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood) in cases of overdose. It is contraindicated in patients with hypercalcemia, hypervitaminosis D, or severe renal impairment.