Products
Cholecalciferol (colecalciferol) is commercially available as a monopreparation as an alcoholic or oily-based solution and in tablet and capsule form. Numerous combination preparations with other vitamins and minerals, and especially with calcium, are available. Cholecalciferol has been approved in many countries since 1938 and is also available as a dietary supplement. See also vitamin D for infants and young children.
Structure and properties
Cholecalciferol (C27H44O, Mr = 384.6 g/mol) exists as white crystals that are practically insoluble in water and soluble in fatty oils and ethanol. The substance is sensitive to air, heat, and light.
Effects
Cholecalciferol (ATC A11CC05) is the precursor of calcitriol and is metabolized in the body by hydroxylation at positions 1 and 25 to calcitriol. Vitamin D plays a central role in the regulation of calcium and phosphate balance. Vitamin D deficiency leads to rickets and bone decalcification. Vitamin D has other functions in metabolism is important in the immune system and cell growth and development, among others.
Indications
- For the prevention and treatment of rickets and vitamin D deficiency diseases.
- Treatment of osteomalacia.
- Vitamin D3 substitution during growth, pregnancy and lactation.
- For the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, in combination with calcium.
Dosage
According to the professional information.
