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Vitamin D: Benefits, Dosage, and Differences Between D2 & D3
Key Points on Vitamin D Benefits and Usage
Vitamin D, available in two forms—Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2) and Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3)—is essential for maintaining bone health, supporting immune function, and promoting overall well-being. It is commonly prescribed to treat conditions such as osteoporosis, rickets, and vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D supplements come in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. Our telemedicine providers are available to assist with any questions regarding your Vitamin D treatment plan.
Names of Vitamin D Medications
Drisdol (Ergocalciferol)
Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)
The generic name refers to the chemical name of the medication, listed in parentheses.
Pharmacologic Category of Vitamin D
Fat-soluble vitamins
Bone health supplements
Vitamin D Dosing for Various Conditions
Vitamin D is used to manage a variety of conditions, and the dosage can vary depending on the specific condition being treated. It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations. Below are typical doses for adults:
Osteoporosis Treatment with Vitamin D
Dose: 800 to 1,000 IU daily of Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) or Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol).
Frequency: Once daily.
Length of Treatment: Long-term, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Rickets Treatment with Vitamin D
Dose: 12,000 to 500,000 IU of Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) or Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) weekly or daily, depending on the severity of the condition.
Frequency: Daily or weekly.
Length of Treatment: Typically 6 to 12 weeks, followed by maintenance therapy.
Osteomalacia Treatment with Vitamin D
Dose: 50,000 IU of Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) once weekly or 5,000 to 7,000 IU daily of Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol).
Frequency: Weekly or daily.
Length of Treatment: 6 to 12 weeks, followed by maintenance therapy.
Hypoparathyroidism and Vitamin D
Dose: 50,000 to 200,000 IU of Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) daily.
Frequency: Daily.
Length of Treatment: Long-term, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Psoriasis and Vitamin D
Dose: Topical Vitamin D analogs are often used, but oral Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) may be prescribed at 1,000 to 2,000 IU daily.
Frequency: Daily.
Length of Treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.
Multiple Sclerosis and Vitamin D
Dose: 4,000 to 10,000 IU of Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) daily.
Frequency: Daily.
Length of Treatment: Long-term, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Cardiovascular Disease and Vitamin D
Dose: 1,000 to 2,000 IU of Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) daily.
Frequency: Daily.
Length of Treatment: Long-term, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Diabetes and Vitamin D
Dose: 1,000 to 4,000 IU of Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) daily.
Frequency: Daily.
Length of Treatment: Long-term, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Respiratory Infections and Vitamin D
Dose: 1,000 to 4,000 IU of Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) daily.
Frequency: Daily.
Length of Treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.
Cancer and Vitamin D
Dose: 1,000 to 4,000 IU of Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) daily.
Frequency: Daily.
Length of Treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.
Always consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. Our telemedicine providers are available to assist with any questions or concerns about your Vitamin D treatment plan.
Dosage Forms and Strengths of Vitamin D Supplements
Capsules: 400 IU, 1,000 IU, 2,000 IU, 5,000 IU, 50,000 IU
Tablets: 400 IU, 1,000 IU, 2,000 IU
Liquid: 400 IU/mL, 1,000 IU/mL
Chewable tablets: 400 IU, 1,000 IU
Topical: Available in various strengths for psoriasis treatment
Administration Instructions for Vitamin D
Vitamin D can be taken with or without food, but it is best absorbed when taken with a meal that contains fat. If using a liquid form, measure the dose carefully with a special measuring device or spoon. Avoid using a household spoon, as it may not provide the correct dose. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects of Vitamin D
Like all medications, Vitamin D can cause side effects. Most people tolerate it well, but some may experience:
Common: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, or loss of appetite.
Less common: Dry mouth, metallic taste, or headache.
Rare but serious: High calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia), which can cause confusion, irregular heartbeat, or kidney problems.
If you experience any of these side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Our telemedicine providers are available to help manage any side effects or concerns.
Contraindications for Vitamin D Use
A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a medication should not be used because it may cause harm. For Vitamin D (Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol), certain conditions may make it unsafe to take the supplement.
Hypercalcemia (High Calcium Levels): Vitamin D increases calcium absorption. If you already have high calcium levels, taking Vitamin D can worsen this condition, leading to complications like kidney stones or calcium deposits in the arteries.
Hypervitaminosis D (Excess Vitamin D): Excess Vitamin D can lead to toxic levels, causing nausea, vomiting, weakness, and serious complications such as kidney damage.
Kidney Disease: People with severe kidney disease may struggle to process Vitamin D, leading to imbalances in calcium and phosphate levels, which can worsen kidney function and increase the risk of soft tissue calcification.
Sarcoidosis or Other Granulomatous Diseases: These conditions can cause increased sensitivity to Vitamin D, leading to elevated calcium levels, which can be harmful.
Drug Interactions with Vitamin D
Vitamin D (Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol) can interact with certain medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking. Some known interactions include:
Orlistat (Alli, Xenical): This weight-loss medication can reduce Vitamin D absorption from the digestive tract, making the supplement less effective.
Cholestyramine (Prevalite, Questran): Used to lower cholesterol, cholestyramine can also interfere with Vitamin D absorption, reducing its effectiveness.
Phenytoin (Dilantin): This anti-seizure medication can increase the breakdown of Vitamin D in the liver, leading to lower levels in the body.
Thiazide Diuretics (Hydrochlorothiazide): These medications, used to treat high blood pressure, can increase calcium levels in the blood when taken with Vitamin D, raising the risk of hypercalcemia.
Glucocorticoids (Prednisone): These medications can reduce calcium absorption and Vitamin D metabolism, potentially leading to bone loss over time.
Vitamin D (Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol) in Pregnancy
Is it safe to take Vitamin D (Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol) when pregnant?
Yes, Vitamin D is generally safe during pregnancy when taken at recommended doses. Maintaining adequate Vitamin D levels is essential for both maternal health and fetal development, particularly for bone health. However, excessive intake can lead to elevated calcium levels, which may pose risks to both the mother and baby. It’s important to consult your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage based on your individual needs. If you’re pregnant and concerned about your Vitamin D levels, consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss your options.
Vitamin D (Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol) while Breastfeeding
Is it safe to take Vitamin D (Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol) while breastfeeding?
Yes, Vitamin D is safe while breastfeeding and is often recommended to ensure both mother and baby maintain sufficient levels. Since breast milk typically contains low amounts of Vitamin D, supplementation may be necessary. Your healthcare provider can help determine the right dosage to support both your health and your baby’s development. If you have questions about Vitamin D supplementation while breastfeeding, consider scheduling a telemedicine visit with one of our providers for personalized guidance.
Estimated Cost of Vitamin D Supplements
The cost of a 30-day supply of Vitamin D (Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol) without insurance can vary depending on the dosage and form. With a GoodRX coupon, over-the-counter Vitamin D supplements typically range from $7 to $15. Prescription-strength Vitamin D may be more expensive, depending on the dosage and the pharmacy.
Possible Alternatives to Vitamin D
For certain conditions, alternative treatments or lifestyle changes may help manage your health. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Below are some alternatives for conditions commonly treated with Vitamin D:
- Osteoporosis: In addition to Vitamin D, calcium supplements, weight-bearing exercises, and medications like bisphosphonates (Alendronate, Fosamax) may help strengthen bones.
- Rickets: Adequate calcium intake and sunlight exposure can help prevent and treat rickets. In severe cases, calcium and phosphate supplements may be prescribed.
- Osteomalacia: Similar to rickets, increasing calcium intake and ensuring adequate sunlight exposure can help. In some cases, calcium and phosphate supplements may be necessary.
- Hypoparathyroidism: Calcium and active forms of Vitamin D (such as calcitriol) are often used to manage this condition. Regular monitoring of calcium and phosphate levels is essential.
- Psoriasis: Topical treatments like corticosteroids or Vitamin D analogs (Calcipotriene, Dovonex) may help manage symptoms. Phototherapy and systemic medications are also options.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS): While Vitamin D may play a role in managing MS, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) like interferons (Rebif, Avonex) or glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) are commonly used. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, may also be beneficial.
- Cardiovascular Disease: In addition to Vitamin D, maintaining a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and medications like statins (Atorvastatin, Lipitor) may help manage cardiovascular risk.
- Diabetes: While Vitamin D may support glucose metabolism, managing diabetes typically involves lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medications like metformin (Glucophage).
- Respiratory Infections: Besides Vitamin D, good hygiene practices, vaccinations (such as the flu shot), and staying hydrated can help prevent respiratory infections.
- Cancer: While research is ongoing, Vitamin D may play a role in cancer prevention. However, treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation remain the primary approaches to managing cancer.
Recent Updates on Vitamin D (Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol) Research
Recent studies continue to explore the role of Vitamin D in various health conditions, including its potential benefits for immune function, cancer prevention, and cardiovascular health. Some research suggests that higher Vitamin D levels may reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer, though more studies are needed to confirm these findings. Additionally, there is growing interest in Vitamin D’s role in managing autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Ongoing research is also investigating Vitamin D’s impact on COVID-19 outcomes. Some studies suggest that maintaining adequate Vitamin D levels may help reduce the severity of respiratory infections, but more clinical trials are needed to establish a definitive link. If you’re interested in learning more about how Vitamin D might benefit your health, consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss the latest research and how it applies to your specific health needs.
