Description

🩺 Common Uses

• Preventing/treating hypocalcemia (low blood calcium), especially when dietary intake is insufficient WebMDCleveland Clinic.

• Bone disorders including osteoporosis, osteomalacia, osteoarthritis, rickets Healthline+5MedlinePlus+5Kaiser Permanente+5.

• Adjunctive therapy in chronic kidney disease or dialysis patients to support mineral balance 24buyonline.

⚠️ Common Side Effects

Typically mild and transient, may include:

• Digestive issues: constipation, upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite Kaiser Permanente.

• Gastrointestinal discomfort (e.g. vomiting, stomach pain, constipation) especially with higher doses Cleveland Clinic+2Healthline+2Kaiser Permanente+2.

🚨 Less Common but Serious Side Effects

Rare cases of hypercalcemia (excess calcium in the blood) can occur, often due to excessive vitamin D intake or underlying health conditions:

• Symptoms include: increased thirst/urination, fatigue, muscle weakness, confusion, vomiting, constipation, kidney stones or injury, abnormal heart rhythms WebMD+3Healthline+324buyonline+3.

• Allergic reactions: rash, itching, hives, swelling of face/lips/throat, breathing difficulties—seek immediate medical attention if these occur Cleveland Clinic.

📝 Precautions & Interactions

• Use with caution or medical supervision if you have:

  • Kidney or liver disease

  • History of kidney stones or hyperparathyroidism

  • High baseline calcium levels Cleveland Clinic.

• Potential drug interactions:

  • Antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, tetracyclines)

  • Heart medications like digoxin

  • Diuretics, iron supplements, antifungals, thyroid meds, sucralfate and others—these may impair absorption or increase levels Cleveland Clinic+1Kaiser Permanente+1.

✅ Usage Tips

• Take as directed by your healthcare provider, typically with meals and a full glass of water to aid absorption Cleveland Clinic+1Drugs.com+1.

• Avoid exceeding the recommended dose—too much vitamin D (especially >10,000 IU/day) can dramatically increase calcium absorption and risk toxicity Cleveland Clinic+3Healthline+3MedlinePlus+3.

• Monitor periodically with blood tests if you’re on long-term or high-dose treatment, especially for calcium and vitamin D levels.

• Separate timing when taking other medications like iron, thyroid medicines, or antibiotics, to prevent interaction Cleveland ClinicDrugs.com.