Ergocalciferol, also known as vitamin D, is a naturally occurring fat-soluble vitamin found in foods. It is also made when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and phosphorous and plays an important role in maintaining bone health.

For medicinal purposes, ergocalciferol is used for the treatment of hypoparathyroidism, refractory rickets, and hereditary hypophosphatemia. It is available as a dietary supplement for individuals who do not get enough vitamin D naturally (vitamin D deficiency).

Ergocalciferol is widely available over the counter as a generic vitamin D2 supplement or under the brand name Drisdol.

Ergocalciferol is used for the treatment of conditions caused by or resulting in, a lack of vitamin D in the body. This includes vitamin D deficiency, as well as hypoparathyroidism, refractory rickets, and hereditary hypophosphatemia.

Vitamin D deficiency is a very common health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It can have serious consequences on the body and mind, including weakened bones, increased risk of depression, and impaired immune system function. Vitamin D plays an important role in many bodily functions, so it's essential to maintain healthy levels by incorporating foods rich in vitamin D into your diet or taking supplements if needed. Additionally, getting regular sun exposure is necessary for producing enough vitamin D naturally. If left untreated, vitamin D deficiency can cause major complications such as bone fractures, rickets, and osteoporosis.

Hypoparathyroidism is an uncommon condition in which the parathyroid glands (small glands near the thyroid) do not produce enough parathyroid hormone. This hormone helps regulate and balance levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body. Too little parathyroid hormone leads to low levels of calcium and excessive levels of phosphorus. Over time, this can lead to muscle pain, seizures, impaired kidney function, and other serious complications.

Rickets is characterized by the softening and weakening of bones in children. This is most commonly caused by prolonged and severe vitamin D deficiency, but may also be caused by rare inherited disorders that affect phosphorous levels in the body (hereditary hypophosphatemia). Rickets can cause delayed physical and motor development, muscle weakness, and pain. It can also lead to physical deformities in the legs and ankles, arms, and chest bones.

Ergocalciferol is a supplemental form of vitamin D. It belongs to a classification of medications known as vitamin D analogs. Ergocalciferol supplies the body with a concentrated dose of vitamin D, helping to boost overall levels in the body. Increased levels of vitamin D help the body absorb calcium from food and beverages which improves bone density.

Individuals with hypoparathyroidism and hereditary hypophosphatemia may be required to take vitamin D supplements their whole lives.

Ergocalciferol usage has been shown to cause some mild side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these do not go away within a few days. If you begin to experience more serious effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Common side effects reported from ergocalciferol use include:

• Changes in skin color
  
• Tiredness
  
  

Serious side effects include:

• Excessive fatigue/ tiredness
  
• Confusion
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Constipation
  
• Drowsiness
  
• Muscle aches
  
• Electrolyte disturbances
  
• Renal impairment
  
  

Seek medical attention right away if you begin to notice any of these effects. These are signs of a serious adverse reaction and medical treatment is required.

As with all prescription medication, inform your doctor of any medical conditions you are currently managing. Tell them about all medication, prescription drugs, and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with ergocalciferol. Ergocalciferol can interact with substances in the body, causing potentially serious adverse reactions.

Let your provider know if you have been diagnosed with high levels of calcium, vitamin D, or vitamin D sensitivity. You should also inform your provider if you have or have had kidney or liver disease.

Ergocalciferol can cause drowsiness. Because of this, you should not operate a motor vehicle or heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

Finally, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with ergocalciferol. If you become pregnant while taking ergocalciferol, inform your health care provider immediately.

Vitamin D supplements are available as oral capsules, tablets, or oral liquids. The exact form and dosage you should take will depend on your age, body weight, and the condition requiring treatment. Take this medication exactly as ordered.

If you miss a dose of ergocalciferol, apply a new patch as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, take your next dose and skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose of ergocalciferol.

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your health care provider. Keep all medication bottles and containers out of reach of small children, and at room temperature. Avoid exposing the medication to excess heat or moisture. Seek medical attention right away if you begin to notice chest pain, trouble breathing, or signs of an allergic reaction (hives, rash, swelling) after taking the medicine.

Do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your health care provider or discontinue the use of ergocalciferol without consulting your health care provider first.

Yes. Nonprescription-strength ergocalciferol is widely available at most grocery stores, pharmacies and medical supply retailers in its generic form (usually labeled as “vitamin D” or “vitamin D2”).

Before purchasing vitamin D supplements over the counter, you should discuss your condition with your health care provider. Some patients may require a stronger dosage of vitamin D supplementation and will be prescribed a higher-dosage medication. It is recommended that you seek medical advice before starting treatment with vitamin D supplements.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment. Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances. For more information about controlled substances, check out the Drug Enforcement Agency’s scheduling guidelines here.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for prescription-strength ergocalciferol to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.