Medicine Information

D-Star

Name: D-Star
Brand: D-Star
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Capsule20000 IUVitamin D preparationsATC: A11CC05

Generic Name

Cholecalciferol

Manufacturer

Leading Pharmaceutical Company

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
d star 20000 iu capsule	৳ 20.00	৳ 200.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

D-Star 20000 IU Capsule is a Vitamin D3 supplement used to treat and prevent Vitamin D deficiency and associated conditions like osteoporosis, rickets, and osteomalacia.

Uses & Indications

Treatment and prevention of Vitamin D deficiency.

Adjuvant therapy for osteoporosis.

Management of rickets and osteomalacia.

Hypoparathyroidism.

Dosage

Adults

For severe deficiency, 20,000 IU once weekly or once every two weeks for 7-10 weeks, then maintenance dose. Dosage must be individualized by a physician based on serum Vitamin D levels.

Elderly

Similar to adults, but careful monitoring of calcium and renal function is advised, especially if concurrent medications are used.

Renal_impairment

Use with caution. Dosage adjustments may be required, and monitoring of serum calcium, phosphate, and creatinine levels is essential. Active Vitamin D analogues may be preferred in severe cases.

How to Take

Take the capsule orally, preferably with a meal, especially the largest meal of the day, to maximize absorption. Swallow whole with water; do not chew or crush.

Mechanism of Action

Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) is a precursor that is hydroxylated in the liver and kidneys to form calcitriol, the active form of Vitamin D. Calcitriol regulates calcium and phosphate metabolism, promoting their absorption from the gut and deposition into bones.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Therapeutic effects are typically observed over days to weeks, as Vitamin D requires metabolic activation.

Excretion

Mainly excreted in bile and feces. A small amount is excreted in urine.

Half life

The half-life of cholecalciferol itself is approximately 15-24 hours. The active metabolite, calcitriol, has a half-life of about 3-6 hours, but its effects can persist longer due to accumulation.

Absorption

Readily absorbed from the small intestine, especially when taken with fatty meals. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 4-5 hours.

Metabolism

Initially hydroxylated in the liver to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (calcifediol), 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 calcium levels in blood).
Hypervitaminosis D (excessive Vitamin D levels).
Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) or nephrocalcinosis.
Severe renal impairment (unless managed with specific active Vitamin D analogues).

Drug Interactions

Corticosteroids

May reduce the effects of Vitamin D.

Thiazide diuretics

May increase the risk of hypercalcemia.

Phenytoin, Barbiturates

May increase Vitamin D metabolism, potentially reducing its effectiveness.

Cholestyramine, Colestipol, Orlistat, Mineral Oil

May impair the absorption of Vitamin D. Administer Vitamin D several hours before or after these agents.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose (hypervitaminosis D) include hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, polyuria, polydipsia, weakness), hypercalciuria, and ultimately renal damage. Treatment involves discontinuing Vitamin D, reducing calcium intake, hydration, and in severe cases, corticosteroids or calcitonin.

Pregnancy & Lactation

During pregnancy and lactation, Vitamin D is essential. However, high doses should be avoided as hypercalcemia can be harmful to the fetus or infant. Use only under medical supervision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

1 x 10 capsules per pack

Shelf Life

24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture.

Availability

Pharmacies

Approval Status

Approved

Patent Status

Off-patent

Clinical Trials

Cholecalciferol has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy in treating and preventing Vitamin D deficiency, with well-established safety and pharmacokinetic profiles.

Lab Monitoring

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels (to assess deficiency and response to treatment).
Serum calcium levels (to monitor for hypercalcemia).
Serum phosphate levels.
Renal function tests (e.g., creatinine, eGFR) periodically.

Doctor Notes

Individualize dosage based on baseline serum 25(OH)D levels and patient's clinical response.
Monitor serum calcium, phosphate, and 25(OH)D levels regularly, especially during initiation of high-dose therapy and in patients with renal impairment.
Educate patients on symptoms of hypercalcemia and the importance of adhering to prescribed dosage.

Patient Guidelines

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting your doctor.
Inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking.
Report any symptoms of high calcium, such as nausea, vomiting, or increased urination, to your doctor.

Missed Dose Advice

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

Driving Precautions

D-Star 20000 IU Capsule is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience side effects like dizziness or extreme weakness, avoid such activities.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and phosphorus.
Ensure adequate, safe sun exposure (if advised by your doctor).
Regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises, can support bone health.