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Ergocalciferol (By mouth)

Ergocalciferol (er-goe-kal-SIF-er-ol)

Treats underactive parathyroid glands, resistant rickets, and low phosphorus in the blood. Also treats vitamin D deficiency.

Brand Name(s):

Calcidol, Calciferol, Drisdol

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to ergocalciferol or vitamin D, or if you have high calcium in the blood, malabsorption syndrome (trouble absorbing food), abnormal sensitivity to vitamin D, and hypervitaminosis D (too much vitamin D in the body).

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Liquid Filled Capsule, Liquid, Tablet

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
  • Oral liquid:
    • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
    • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.
  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Some foods and medicines can affect how ergocalciferol works. Tell your doctor if you are using mineral oil or diuretics (water pill).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease.
  • The capsule contains a yellow dye called tartrazine, which may cause serious allergic reactions (including asthma). Tell your doctor if you have any allergies (including an aspirin allergy).
  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
  • Bloody or cloudy urine, change in how much or how often you urinate, lower back or side pain, increased thirst, trouble breathing
  • Blurred vision, slow or fast heartbeat, lightheadedness, dizziness
  • Confusion, problems with speech or memory
  • Drowsiness, headache, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, trouble breathing
  • Slow growth in children
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Constipation
  • Decreased weight or appetite

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 12/4/2023

 
 
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