D-Fo Forte
Generic Name
D-Fo
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
D-Fo contains Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3), which is essential for calcium and phosphate absorption and metabolism. It is used to prevent and treat vitamin D deficiency and related bone conditions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For deficiency: 20000 IU once weekly for 7-10 weeks, then maintenance dose. For maintenance: 800-2000 IU daily (or equivalent weekly/monthly).
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but often higher doses for deficiency due to reduced skin synthesis and absorption.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; close monitoring of calcium and phosphate levels is required. Active vitamin D metabolites may be preferred.
How to Take
D-Fo capsules should be taken orally, preferably with a meal containing fat to enhance absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Cholecalciferol is converted into its active form (calcitriol) in the body, which regulates calcium and phosphate homeostasis by promoting absorption from the gut and reabsorption in the kidneys, and affecting bone mineralization.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Days to weeks for clinical effect, depending on deficiency severity.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in bile and feces; a small amount is excreted in urine.
Half life
Approximately 24 hours for parent compound; active metabolites have longer half-lives (e.g., 25(OH)D3 half-life is 2-3 weeks).
Absorption
Well-absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, especially in the presence of dietary fat.
Metabolism
Metabolized in the liver to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (calcifediol) and then in the kidneys to 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (calcitriol, the active form).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in blood)
- Hypervitaminosis D (vitamin D toxicity)
- Severe renal impairment with hyperphosphatemia
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids
May reduce vitamin D effects.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcemia.
Orlistat, Cholestyramine
May impair absorption of vitamin D.
Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine)
May increase vitamin D metabolism, leading to reduced effectiveness.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, thirst, polyuria, constipation, muscle weakness). Management involves discontinuing D-Fo, restricting calcium intake, and hydration. Severe cases may require hospitalization.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Essential during pregnancy and lactation. Recommended doses are safe, but high doses should be avoided. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosage.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in blood)
- Hypervitaminosis D (vitamin D toxicity)
- Severe renal impairment with hyperphosphatemia
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids
May reduce vitamin D effects.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcemia.
Orlistat, Cholestyramine
May impair absorption of vitamin D.
Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine)
May increase vitamin D metabolism, leading to reduced effectiveness.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, thirst, polyuria, constipation, muscle weakness). Management involves discontinuing D-Fo, restricting calcium intake, and hydration. Severe cases may require hospitalization.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Essential during pregnancy and lactation. Recommended doses are safe, but high doses should be avoided. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Drug stores
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent (Cholecalciferol)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Ongoing research explores vitamin D's role in various non-skeletal conditions, including immune function, cardiovascular health, and certain cancers.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels
- Serum calcium levels
- Serum phosphate levels
- Renal function (e.g., creatinine)
Doctor Notes
- Regularly monitor serum 25(OH)D and calcium levels, especially in patients on high doses or with pre-existing renal conditions.
- Educate patients on dietary sources of vitamin D and safe sun exposure.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose without medical advice.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
D-Fo is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Ensure adequate sunlight exposure if possible.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
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International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.