Ultra-D
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 |
---|---|---|
ultra d 20000 iu capsule | ৳ 17.50 | ৳ 175.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ultra-D 20000 IU Capsule contains Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3), a vital fat-soluble vitamin essential for calcium and phosphate absorption, bone health, and immune system function. It is primarily used to treat and prevent vitamin D deficiency, osteomalacia, rickets, and as a supplement in conditions like osteoporosis.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For severe vitamin D deficiency: 20000 IU once weekly for 7 weeks, followed by maintenance dose as per physician's advice (e.g., 800-2000 IU daily or equivalent weekly/monthly). For osteoporosis: 20000 IU once weekly or bi-weekly as directed by physician.
Elderly
Same as adults, but may require closer monitoring of vitamin D levels and calcium.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage may need adjustment. Monitor calcium and phosphate levels closely.
How to Take
To be taken orally, preferably with the largest meal of the day to enhance absorption. Do not chew or crush the capsule, swallow whole with water.
Mechanism of Action
Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) is biologically inactive and is converted in the liver to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (calcidiol), and then in the kidneys to 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (calcitriol), the active form. Calcitriol acts by binding to the vitamin D receptor (VDR), regulating calcium and phosphate homeostasis, promoting their absorption from the gut, and facilitating bone mineralization.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Effects on calcium and phosphate levels typically seen within days to weeks, peak calcitriol levels reached within hours.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in bile and feces; a small amount is excreted in urine.
Half life
The half-life of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (calcidiol) is about 15-30 days; the active form 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol) has a half-life of about 4-6 hours.
Absorption
Readily absorbed from the small intestine, primarily in the presence of bile salts and dietary fat.
Metabolism
Metabolized in the liver to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (calcidiol) and subsequently in the kidneys to 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (calcitriol), the active form. Further metabolism inactivates the vitamin.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcaemia (high calcium levels in blood)
- Hypervitaminosis D (vitamin D toxicity)
- Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
- Severe renal impairment
- Hypersensitivity to cholecalciferol or any excipients
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids
May reduce the effects of vitamin D.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcaemia due to reduced urinary calcium excretion.
Digitalis glycosides
Increased risk of digitalis toxicity due to hypercalcaemia.
Phenytoin, barbiturates
May accelerate vitamin D metabolism, reducing its effects.
Cholestyramine, colestipol, orlistat, paraffin oil
May impair absorption of vitamin D.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypercalcaemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, polyuria, polydipsia, anorexia, weakness, headache, confusion), hypercalciuria, and ultimately kidney damage. Treatment involves discontinuation of vitamin D, hydration, and management of hypercalcaemia with diuretics or corticosteroids if severe.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Vitamin D is essential during pregnancy and lactation. High doses should be used only if clearly needed and under medical supervision, with careful monitoring of maternal and fetal calcium levels. Excess vitamin D may be harmful to the fetus.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcaemia (high calcium levels in blood)
- Hypervitaminosis D (vitamin D toxicity)
- Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
- Severe renal impairment
- Hypersensitivity to cholecalciferol or any excipients
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids
May reduce the effects of vitamin D.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcaemia due to reduced urinary calcium excretion.
Digitalis glycosides
Increased risk of digitalis toxicity due to hypercalcaemia.
Phenytoin, barbiturates
May accelerate vitamin D metabolism, reducing its effects.
Cholestyramine, colestipol, orlistat, paraffin oil
May impair absorption of vitamin D.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypercalcaemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, polyuria, polydipsia, anorexia, weakness, headache, confusion), hypercalciuria, and ultimately kidney damage. Treatment involves discontinuation of vitamin D, hydration, and management of hypercalcaemia with diuretics or corticosteroids if severe.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Vitamin D is essential during pregnancy and lactation. High doses should be used only if clearly needed and under medical supervision, with careful monitoring of maternal and fetal calcium levels. Excess vitamin D may be harmful to the fetus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
Clinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of cholecalciferol in treating and preventing vitamin D deficiency, with ongoing research exploring its roles in various other conditions like autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular health, and certain cancers. Specific trials for Ultra-D brand may exist but are brand-specific.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum 25(OH)D levels (to monitor vitamin D status)
- Serum calcium levels
- Serum phosphate levels
- Urinary calcium excretion (if hypercalcaemia suspected)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of regular follow-up and blood test monitoring, especially for high doses.
- Educate patients on symptoms of hypercalcaemia.
- Consider co-administration with calcium if dietary intake is insufficient and not contraindicated.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
- Report any symptoms of hypercalcaemia immediately.
- Regular monitoring of blood calcium and vitamin D levels may be required.
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 take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
Driving Precautions
Generally, Ultra-D 20000 IU Capsule does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if side effects like confusion or weakness occur due to hypercalcaemia, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium.
- Get adequate sun exposure (while being mindful of skin protection).
- Engage in regular weight-bearing exercises.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
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