Vitamin D is available in different forms called analogs. Two analogs include ergocalciferol, or vitamin D2, and calcitriol, the most active form of vitamin D. Both of these analogs are available as prescription medications. Ergocalciferol is available in tablets, capsules and oral drops; it is used for refractory rickets, low phosphate levels, hyperparathyroidism and as a dietary supplement. Calcitriol is available as an injection, capsule, oral solution and ointment. The injection and oral forms are used to treat low calcium levels in patient on dialysis and secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease. They are also used in the management of low calcium levels in hypoparathyroidism and pseudohypoparathyroidism. The ointment is used to treat mild to moderate plaque psoriasis. Prescription vitamin D can produce several side effects.
Nausea, Stomach Pain and Loss of Appetite
Ergocalciferol and calcitriol may produce nausea, vomiting and stomach pain. Taking the medication with a meal may help avoid these side effects. These medications may also produce loss of appetite and weight loss. Speak with your physician if you lose significant weight without trying. Calcitriol may cause dry mouth and metallic taste in the mouth, according to the "Drug Information Handbook." Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy may help with these adverse reactions.
Constipation or Diarrhea
Constipation is a common side effect of ergocalciferol, reports Drugs.com. Diarrhea may also develop. Over-the-counter medications may help with these side effects, but speak with a physician or pharmacist before using any over-the-counter drugs for relief. If constipation or diarrhea worsens, or continues for more than three days, seek medical care.
Local Site Reactions
Topical calcitriol ointment may cause discomfort at the site of application. You may experience redness and itchiness. The injection form of calcitriol may also lead to local site reactions including redness, swelling, pain, itchiness and bruising. These reactions are not harmful and go away with continued use.
High Levels of Calcium and Phosphate
"Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach" explains that vitamin-D therapy in patients being treated to for secondary hyperparathyroidism may develop hypercalcemia, which is high calcium, and hyperphosphatemia, which is high phosphate. These levels are measured by a blood test and require regular monitoring by a physician to ensure the levels are within normal range.
Weakness and Pain
Ergocalciferol may lead to weakness and muscle aches. Calcitriol may cause weakness, headache, bone pain and muscle pain, according to Drugs.com. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, may help, but if pain persists, contact a health care professional.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
- Drugs.com: Ergocalciferol Side Effects
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Josep T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
- Drugs.com: Calcitriol Side Effects
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