ergocalciferol (vitamin D2)

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum 

The active form of ergocalciferol is calcitriol, which plays an important role in the regulation of calcium and phosphorus absorption in the intestines. 

This increases the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the gastrointestinal tract, promoting their incorporation into bones and teeth.  

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Drowsiness 

Dry mouth 

Increased volume of pale, dilute urine 

Loss of appetite 

Slow or fast heartbeat 

Swelling of the face, fingers, or lower legs 

Trouble breathing 

Unusual tiredness or weakness 

Vomiting 

Nervousness 

Frequent urination 

Increased thirst 

Blurred vision 

Dizziness 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to ergocalciferol or any of its components should avoid its use. 

Caution: 

• Ergocalciferol supplementation should be used cautiously in individuals with hypercalcemia. 
• Individuals with kidney disease should exercise caution when using ergocalciferol. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: 

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excretion into human milk is unknown  

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.  

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women. 

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology  

Ergocalciferol is synthesized by plants, fungi, and yeasts when exposed to ultraviolet Blight. 

Dietary sources of ergocalciferol include certain types of mushrooms, and it is also available in fortified foods and supplements. 

Pharmacodynamics 

Calcitriol is the active form of ergocalciferol which increases the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the small intestine.  

Calcitriol stimulates the synthesis of calcium-binding proteins in the enterocytes of the small intestine. 

Pharmacokinetics 

Absorption   

Ergocalciferol is absorbed in the small intestine. 

Distribution 

Ergocalciferol is distributed to various tissues. 

Metabolism 

Ergocalciferol is metabolized in the liver. 

Elimination and excretion 

Ergocalciferol is excreted in the bile. 

Adminstartion

Administration 

Ergocalciferol is available in oral supplement form, including tablets, capsules, and liquid formulations. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) 

Why do we use ergocalciferol (vitamin D2)? 

Ergocalciferol is indicated to support bone health and prevent conditions like osteoporosis. 

Ergocalciferol is used as part of the treatment approach to maintain calcium balance in individuals with hypoparathyroidism.