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Pronunciation

ER-goe-kal-SIF-e-role

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: vitamins

Pharmacologic Classification: fat soluble vitamins

Indications

REMS


Action

  • Requires activation in the liver and kidneys to create the active form of vitamin D2.
  • Promotes the absorption of calcium and decreases parathyroid hormone concentrations.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Treatment and prevention of deficiency states, particularly bone manifestations.
  • Improved calcium and phosphorous homeostasis.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed.

Distribution: Unknown.

Metabolism/Excretion: Converted to the active form of vitamin D2 by sunlight, the liver, and the kidneys.

Half-Life: Unknown.

Time/Action Profile

(effects on serum calcium)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
PO12–24 hr4 wkunknown



Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

Seen primarily as manifestations of toxicity (hypercalcemia)

CV: arrhythmias, edema, hypertension

Derm: pruritus

EENT: conjunctivitis, photophobia, rhinorrhea

F and E: hypercalcemia

GI: liver enzymes, anorexia, constipation, dry mouth, metallic taste, nausea, PANCREATITIS, polydipsia, vomiting, weight loss

GU: libido, albuminuria, azotemia, nocturia, polyuria

Metab: hyperthermia

MS: bone pain, metastatic calcification, muscle pain

Neuro: dizziness, headache, malaise, somnolence, weakness

Resp: dyspnea

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage

Familial Hypophosphatemia

Hypoparathyroidism

Vitamin D-Resistant Rickets

Adequate Intake

Availability

(Generic available)

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Toxicity and Overdose:

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Drisdol, vitamin D2

Code

NDC Code