ERGOCALCIFEROL, Vitamin D2

INDICATION AND DOSAGE OF ERGOCALCIFEROL, Vitamin D2

What It Is

Ergocalciferol, also known as vitamin D2, is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health and regulating calcium and phosphorus levels in the body. It is one of the two main forms of vitamin D, the other being vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Ergocalciferol is primarily derived from yeast and fungi and is commonly used as a dietary supplement to treat and prevent vitamin D deficiency.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Ergocalciferol is available in several dosage forms and strengths, including:

Tablets: Typically available in strengths of 400 IU, 800 IU, and 1,000 IU.
Capsules: Usually found in strengths of 400 IU and 1,000 IU.
Oral Drops: Available in concentrations such as 400 IU per mL.
Injectable Form: Ergocalciferol is also available as an injectable solution, though this form is less commonly used.

Brand and Generic Names

Ergocalciferol is marketed under various brand names, including:

Drisdol
Calciferol
Vitamin D2

It is also available as a generic product under the name "ergocalciferol."

Indications for Use

Ergocalciferol is prescribed for various indications, including:

Vitamin D Deficiency: To treat or prevent deficiency in patients who have low levels of vitamin D, often due to inadequate dietary intake, lack of sunlight exposure, or certain medical conditions.
Osteomalacia: To treat osteomalacia, a condition characterized by the softening of bones due to vitamin D deficiency.
Rickets: To treat rickets, a childhood condition resulting from vitamin D deficiency that leads to weakened bones and deformities.
Hypoparathyroidism: To manage low levels of parathyroid hormone, which can affect calcium and vitamin D metabolism.

Mechanism of Action

Ergocalciferol functions as a prohormone that is converted in the body to its active form, calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D). Calcitriol acts on various organs to:

Enhance Intestinal Absorption: Increases the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the gastrointestinal tract.
Regulate Bone Metabolism: Promotes bone mineralization and resorption, contributing to bone health.
Maintain Serum Calcium Levels: Helps to maintain normal serum calcium and phosphate concentrations, which are critical for bone mineralization.

Administration and Dosage

The dosage of ergocalciferol varies depending on the indication and the patient’s needs. Typical dosages are:

For Vitamin D Deficiency: Usually, 400 to 2,000 IU per day, depending on the severity of the deficiency and the patient’s response.
For Osteomalacia/Rickets: Higher doses may be required, often ranging from 1,000 to 50,000 IU per week, with adjustments based on serum vitamin D levels and clinical response.
For Hypoparathyroidism: Dosage is tailored to maintain appropriate serum calcium levels, often involving higher daily doses.

Ergocalciferol should be taken with food to enhance absorption, and dosages should be adjusted based on blood tests and clinical monitoring.

Side Effects and Precautions

Common side effects of ergocalciferol may include:

Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea.
Hypercalcemia: Elevated levels of calcium in the blood, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, headache, and confusion.
Hyperphosphatemia: Elevated levels of phosphate in the blood, which may lead to additional complications.

Precautions include:

Monitoring: Regular monitoring of serum calcium and phosphate levels is essential to avoid complications.
Interaction with Other Medications: Ergocalciferol may interact with certain medications, such as anticonvulsants and corticosteroids, which can affect vitamin D metabolism.
Kidney Function: Caution is advised in patients with renal impairment, as they may have an altered ability to metabolize vitamin D.

Conclusion

Ergocalciferol is a vital component in the management of vitamin D deficiency and related bone disorders. Its effectiveness in enhancing bone health and regulating calcium and phosphorus metabolism makes it a valuable therapeutic agent. However, appropriate dosing, careful monitoring, and consideration of potential side effects and drug interactions are crucial to ensuring optimal therapeutic outcomes. As with any medication, it is important for patients to work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their individual needs.