Products
Vitamin D is available in many countries from various suppliers as a dropper solution or as an oral solution (e.g., Streuli, Wild, Burgerstein, Drossapharm).
Structure and properties
The preparations contain the precursor cholecalciferol (C27H44O, Mr = 384.6 g/mol). Vitamin D3 exists as white crystals that are practically insoluble in water and soluble in fatty oils and ethanol. Cholecalciferol is sensitive to air, heat and light. In the past, in many countries only products containing alcohol as an excipient were on the market. Many parents were concerned about this, which is why pharmacies imported oil-based medicines from nearby countries. According to the specialist literature, however, there is no evidence of any adverse effect on the health of infants as a result of the amount of alcohol added. Oil-based products have also been available in many countries since 2010. They contain medium-chain triglycerides and no peanut oil.
Effects
Cholecalciferol (ATC A11CC05) is the precursor of calcitriol and is metabolized in the body by hydroxylation at positions 1 and 25 to the active calcitriol. Vitamin D plays a central role in the regulation of calcium and phosphate balance and in bone mineralization. Vitamin D deficiency leads to rickets and bone decalcification. Vitamin D has other important functions in metabolism. Infants and toddlers are growing and are now increasingly protected from solar radiation, which is necessary for the formation of vitamin D. According to the literature, the intake with breast milk is not sufficient for the supply of infants. The diet provides only a small contribution. Therefore, the vitamin is supplemented.
Indications
From the 2nd week of life to prevent vitamin D deficiency, bone diseases, and rickets. Swiss authorities recommend supplementation during the first three years of life, until the 3rd birthday:
- Birth to 1st birthday (1st year) – infant.
- 1st to 2nd birthday (2nd year) – toddler
- 2nd to 3rd birthday (3rd year) – toddler
Previously, the administration was recommended only in the first year of life.
Dosage
According to the technical information and the recommendations of the FOPH / FSVO.
- Infants in the first year of life: 400 IU / day.
- Children in the 2nd and 3rd year of life: 600 IU/day
The application depends on the product. The solution is contained either in small bottles with a dropper insert or in vials with a pipette. In premature births, the dose is increased. The medicine can be administered directly into the mouth, on a nuggi or with a spoon, or mixed with breast milk, milk or porridge. However, care must be taken to ensure complete consumption. If the preparation is changed, the parents must be informed about the different application. Caution: once opened, solutions are only stable for three to six months and not until the expiration date (depending on the product).
Contraindications
Refer to the drug label for complete precautions.
Adverse effects
Side effects are expected only in case of allergy to the active substance or excipients and in case of overdose.