Medicine Information

al-d3

Name: al-d3
Brand: al-d3
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Capsule20000 IUVitamin D preparationsATC: A11CC05

Generic Name

Cholecalciferol 20000 IU Capsule

Manufacturer

General Pharmaceutical Company

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
al d3 20000 iu capsule	৳ 15.00	৳ 150.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) 20000 IU capsule is a high-strength supplement used to treat and prevent Vitamin D deficiency and related conditions like rickets and osteomalacia. It is crucial for calcium and phosphate metabolism and bone health.

Uses & Indications

Treatment of severe Vitamin D deficiency

Prevention of Vitamin D deficiency in high-risk individuals

As an adjunct in the treatment of osteoporosis

Treatment of osteomalacia and rickets

Hypoparathyroidism

Dosage

Adults

For severe deficiency, 20000 IU once weekly for 7 weeks, followed by a maintenance dose of 800-2000 IU daily, or as directed by a physician based on serum 25(OH)D levels.

Elderly

Same as adults, but increased monitoring for hypercalcemia may be advisable due to potential reduced renal function or concomitant medication use.

Renal_impairment

Use with caution. In severe renal impairment, active vitamin D metabolites may be preferred. Dose adjustment may be necessary and should be guided by serum calcium and phosphate levels. Consult physician.

How to Take

Orally. To optimize absorption, it should be taken with food, preferably the largest meal of the day, which contains fat.

Mechanism of Action

Cholecalciferol is converted in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D (calcidiol) and then in the kidneys to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol), the active form of Vitamin D. Calcitriol regulates calcium and phosphate homeostasis, promoting absorption from the gut, reabsorption in the kidneys, and mobilization from bone.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Effects on serum calcium levels can be seen within hours to days, but full clinical effects on bone health and resolution of deficiency may take weeks to months.

Excretion

Primarily excreted in bile and feces. A small amount is excreted renally.

Half life

The elimination half-life of cholecalciferol itself is approximately 1-2 days, but its main metabolite, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, has a much longer half-life (about 2-3 weeks). Stored in adipose tissue, extending its effective duration.

Absorption

Readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily in the small intestine. Absorption is enhanced by the presence of fat in the diet.

Metabolism

Metabolized in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D (calcidiol), which is then further hydroxylated in the kidneys to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol, the active form).

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood)
Hypervitaminosis D (Vitamin D toxicity)
Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) or history of recurrent kidney stones
Severe renal impairment (especially if active metabolites are not monitored)
Known hypersensitivity to cholecalciferol or any component of the formulation

Drug Interactions

Digoxin

Hypercalcemia induced by vitamin D can potentiate the effects of digoxin, increasing the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.

Corticosteroids

May impair vitamin D metabolism and reduce its absorption and effectiveness.

Thiazide diuretics

May increase the risk of hypercalcemia by reducing urinary calcium excretion.

Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, barbiturates)

May accelerate vitamin D metabolism, potentially reducing its effectiveness.

Bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine, colestipol) and mineral oil

May reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, including Vitamin D.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C (86°F). Protect from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose (hypervitaminosis D) are primarily due to hypercalcemia, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, polyuria, polydipsia, muscle weakness, fatigue, headache, and in severe cases, renal impairment, cardiac arrhythmias, and soft tissue calcification. Treatment involves immediate discontinuation of Vitamin D, a low calcium diet, increased fluid intake, and in severe cases, corticosteroids or calcitonin may be administered.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Vitamin D is essential during pregnancy and lactation. However, high doses (like 20000 IU) should only be used under strict medical supervision when the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Vitamin D is excreted into breast milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

1 x 4 capsules (blister)1 x 8 capsules (blister)1 x 10 capsules (blister)

Shelf Life

24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on the manufacturer.

Availability

Pharmacies, drug stores

Approval Status

Approved

Patent Status

Generic available

Clinical Trials

Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of cholecalciferol supplementation in improving Vitamin D status, bone mineral density, and reducing fracture risk in deficient populations. Research also explores its role in immune function and chronic disease prevention.

Lab Monitoring

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels: To assess Vitamin D status and monitor treatment.
Serum calcium levels: Essential to monitor, especially during high-dose therapy, to prevent hypercalcemia.
Serum phosphate levels: To monitor mineral balance.
Urinary calcium excretion (24-hour collection): May be performed periodically, especially in patients at risk of hypercalciuria.

Doctor Notes

Crucially monitor serum 25(OH)D and calcium levels (total and ionized) at baseline, 3 months post-initiation, and every 6-12 months thereafter, or as clinically indicated.
Educate patients on the signs and symptoms of hypercalcemia to ensure early detection and intervention.
Consider concomitant calcium supplementation only if dietary intake is inadequate and monitor closely.

Patient Guidelines

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not alter the dose or duration of treatment.
Take the capsule with food, preferably a meal containing fat, to enhance absorption.
Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Report any symptoms of high calcium (e.g., excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness) to your doctor immediately.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Driving Precautions

Cholecalciferol is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. No special precautions are necessary.

Lifestyle Advice

Ensure adequate dietary calcium intake through dairy products or calcium-rich foods.
Engage in regular weight-bearing exercise to support bone health.
Maintain a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.