d-cap
Generic Name
Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3)
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| d cap 800 iu capsule | ৳ 4.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
d-cap 800 IU Capsule contains Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3), an essential fat-soluble vitamin vital for calcium absorption, bone health, and immune system support. It is commonly used to prevent and treat Vitamin D deficiency and associated bone disorders.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For Vitamin D deficiency: 800-1000 IU daily, or as directed by a physician, sometimes higher doses are required based on serum levels. For maintenance: 600-800 IU daily.
Elderly
Similar to adults. May require higher doses due to reduced skin synthesis and absorption. Consult a physician.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Active forms of Vitamin D may be preferred. Dosage should be determined by a physician based on renal function and serum calcium/phosphate levels.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably with a meal containing fat to enhance absorption. Do not crush or chew the capsule.
Mechanism of Action
Cholecalciferol is converted in the liver to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol and then in the kidneys to 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (calcitriol), the active form of Vitamin D. Calcitriol regulates calcium and phosphate homeostasis by promoting their absorption from the intestine, reabsorption in the kidneys, and mobilization from bone.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects on calcium and bone metabolism may take several weeks to months to become fully apparent, depending on the severity of deficiency.
Excretion
Excreted primarily in the bile and feces, with only a small amount excreted renally.
Half life
The half-life of cholecalciferol itself is approximately 15 days, while the major circulating metabolite, 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], has a half-life of about 3 weeks.
Absorption
Cholecalciferol is readily absorbed from the small intestine, primarily in the presence of bile salts and dietary fat. It is transported to the liver via chylomicrons.
Metabolism
Initially hydroxylated in the liver to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol, and then further hydroxylated in the kidneys to the active form, 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (calcitriol).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Cholecalciferol or any component of the formulation
- Hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood)
- Hypervitaminosis D (excessive levels of Vitamin D)
- Severe renal impairment with hyperphosphatemia
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids
May reduce the effect of Vitamin D.
Thiazide Diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcemia.
Phenytoin, Barbiturates
May accelerate vitamin D metabolism, reducing its effects.
Cardiac Glycosides (e.g., Digoxin)
Hypercalcemia induced by Vitamin D may potentiate toxicity of cardiac glycosides.
Orlistat, Cholestyramine, Mineral oil
May impair absorption of fat-soluble Vitamin D.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C (86°F), away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose (hypervitaminosis D) include hypercalcemia, which can manifest as nausea, vomiting, constipation, polyuria, polydipsia, weakness, headache, and in severe cases, renal impairment, cardiac arrhythmias, and coma. Management involves discontinuing Vitamin D, hydrating the patient, and managing hypercalcemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Vitamin D is generally safe during pregnancy and lactation at recommended doses. Higher doses should only be used under strict medical supervision and if the potential benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus or infant.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Cholecalciferol or any component of the formulation
- Hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood)
- Hypervitaminosis D (excessive levels of Vitamin D)
- Severe renal impairment with hyperphosphatemia
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids
May reduce the effect of Vitamin D.
Thiazide Diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcemia.
Phenytoin, Barbiturates
May accelerate vitamin D metabolism, reducing its effects.
Cardiac Glycosides (e.g., Digoxin)
Hypercalcemia induced by Vitamin D may potentiate toxicity of cardiac glycosides.
Orlistat, Cholestyramine, Mineral oil
May impair absorption of fat-soluble Vitamin D.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C (86°F), away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose (hypervitaminosis D) include hypercalcemia, which can manifest as nausea, vomiting, constipation, polyuria, polydipsia, weakness, headache, and in severe cases, renal impairment, cardiac arrhythmias, and coma. Management involves discontinuing Vitamin D, hydrating the patient, and managing hypercalcemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Vitamin D is generally safe during pregnancy and lactation at recommended doses. Higher doses should only be used under strict medical supervision and if the potential benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus or infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2-3 years from the date of manufacture, refer to the package for exact expiry.
Availability
Pharmacies, supermarkets, online stores
Approval Status
Approved (OTC/Prescription)
Patent Status
Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy of Cholecalciferol in treating and preventing Vitamin D deficiency and associated bone disorders. Ongoing research explores its role in immune function, cardiovascular health, and other conditions.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels (to assess Vitamin D status)
- Serum calcium levels (especially when starting treatment or with high doses)
- Serum phosphate and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels (in specific conditions or with renal impairment)
Doctor Notes
- Assess patient's serum 25(OH)D levels to determine the degree of deficiency and guide appropriate dosing.
- Consider underlying conditions (e.g., malabsorption, renal/hepatic impairment) that may affect Vitamin D metabolism.
- Educate patients on the importance of adherence, potential interactions, and symptoms of hypercalcemia.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor or as indicated on the package.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting a healthcare professional.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
- If you experience any unusual symptoms, contact your doctor 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
d-cap 800 IU Capsule is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D sources.
- Engage in moderate sun exposure, if appropriate, to aid natural Vitamin D synthesis.
- Regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises, supports bone health.
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