Vitamin D3
Uses of Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 is commonly used to treat nutritional deficiencies and Vitamin D deficiency.
How Vitamin D3 Works
Vitamin D3 interacts with Vitamin D receptors in the gut, bones and kidneys to increase the absorption of calcium and phosphorous.
Side Effects of Vitamin D3
Ectopic calcification, Kidney and heart damage, Hypercalciuria
Warnings
Kidney High Risk
Vitamin D3 is recommended to be used with caution in patients with mild to moderate kidney impairment whereas its usage is not advisable in patients with severe kidney impairment.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Alcohol may decrease the absorption of Vitamin D3 thus alcohol is not advisable to be taken simultaneously with Vitamin D3.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Vitamin D3 is not advisable to be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks.
Driving Generally Safe
Vitamin D3 usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Safe If Prescribed
Vitamin D3 is generally safe to use in patients with liver impairment.
Lactation Safe If Prescribed
Although there are no effects on the breastfed newborn, the practitioner has to consider the dose of any additional Vitamin D3 as it can be excreted into the breastmilk.
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
