D-Cap
Generic Name
Cholecalciferol
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| d cap 20000 iu capsule | ৳ 20.00 | ৳ 200.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
D-Cap 20000 IU Capsule contains Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3), a fat-soluble vitamin essential for calcium and phosphate absorption, bone health, and immune function. It is primarily used to treat and prevent vitamin D deficiency.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typical adult dosage for deficiency is 20000 IU once weekly for 7 weeks, followed by maintenance, or as directed by physician.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but individual needs may vary. Monitoring of calcium and vitamin D levels is recommended.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; monitoring of calcium and phosphate levels is recommended. Not recommended in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Orally, preferably with the largest meal of the day to enhance absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) is biologically inactive and must be hydroxylated in the liver to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (calcidiol) and then in the kidneys to the active form, 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (calcitriol). Calcitriol promotes calcium and phosphate absorption from the intestine, regulates bone mineralization, and influences various cellular processes, including immune response.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Effects on calcium levels typically seen within days to weeks.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in bile and feces; small amounts in urine.
Half life
The half-life of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (calcidiol) is about 2-3 weeks, while 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol) has a half-life of 4-6 hours.
Absorption
Readily absorbed from the small intestine, primarily in the presence of bile salts.
Metabolism
Metabolized in the liver (to 25-hydroxyvitamin D) and kidneys (to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, the active form).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to vitamin D or any of its excipients
- Hypercalcemia
- Hypervitaminosis D
- Nephrolithiasis
- Severe renal impairment
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids
May reduce vitamin D effects.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase risk of hypercalcemia.
Cholestyramine, Colestipol, Orlistat
May impair absorption of vitamin D.
Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, barbiturates)
May increase vitamin D metabolism, reducing its effects.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, weakness, thirst, polyuria), nephrocalcinosis, and renal failure. Treatment involves discontinuing vitamin D, low calcium diet, and hydration. In severe cases, corticosteroids or calcitonin may be used.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category C. Consult a doctor. Vitamin D is excreted in breast milk; generally considered safe at recommended doses, but monitoring is advised.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to vitamin D or any of its excipients
- Hypercalcemia
- Hypervitaminosis D
- Nephrolithiasis
- Severe renal impairment
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids
May reduce vitamin D effects.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase risk of hypercalcemia.
Cholestyramine, Colestipol, Orlistat
May impair absorption of vitamin D.
Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, barbiturates)
May increase vitamin D metabolism, reducing its effects.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, weakness, thirst, polyuria), nephrocalcinosis, and renal failure. Treatment involves discontinuing vitamin D, low calcium diet, and hydration. In severe cases, corticosteroids or calcitonin may be used.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category C. Consult a doctor. Vitamin D is excreted in breast milk; generally considered safe at recommended doses, but monitoring is advised.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy of Cholecalciferol in treating and preventing vitamin D deficiency and its associated conditions.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels
- Serum calcium levels
- Serum phosphate levels
- Renal function (creatinine)
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on dietary sources of Vitamin D and calcium.
- Monitor serum calcium, phosphate, and 25(OH)D levels, especially in high-dose or long-term therapy.
- Consider renal function in elderly or renally impaired patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Take as directed by your doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Ensure adequate dietary calcium intake.
- Report any signs of hypercalcemia immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Generally no effect on ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
- Get moderate sun exposure (if safe and advised by doctor).
- Regular exercise for bone health.
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