Your body relies on vitamin D to keep your teeth and bones strong. If you don't get enough vitamin D as part of your normal diet, your physician may recommend adding a vitamin D supplement to your diet. There are two forms of vitamin D supplements: Vitamin D-2, also called ergocalciferol; and vitamin D-3, also called cholecalciferol. Talk with your medical provider about the potential side effects of vitamin D-2 supplements before you begin taking this form of vitamin D.
Overdose
Though treatment with vitamin D-2 supplements is typically safe, taking more than 4,000 international units or IU of vitamin D each day may significantly increase your blood levels of this nutrient, the Office of Dietary Supplements warns. Vitamin D also helps your body absorb calcium. If you take too much vitamin D-2, you may develop hypercalcemia, a condition characterized by abnormally high blood levels of calcium. Vitamin D-2 overdose symptoms may include constipation, itchy skin, muscle or bone pain, increased urination or a metallic oral taste. In the absence of prompt, appropriate treatment, a vitamin D-2 overdose may also cause calcification of the soft tissues and vital organs in your body, DailyMed warns. Calcification of your heart or other organs may prevent your body from functioning normally and can cause life-threatening medical complications.
Stomach Discomfort
Vitamin D-2 supplements may irritate your digestive tract and may cause mild nausea, heartburn or loss of appetite. You may also experience bowel movement changes such as diarrhea or constipation. If these side effects persist or become severe, consult your medical provider for further evaluation and care. Severe stomach discomfort may be a symptom of a vitamin D-2 overdose.
Medication Interactions
Discuss all medications you are currently taking with your health care provider before you begin taking vitamin D-2 supplements. Vitamin D may reduce the efficacy of certain medications, including calcium channel blockers and atorvastatin, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns. Additionally, concomitant use of vitamin D supplements and digoxin may increase your risk of developing severe side effects or toxicity from this prescription medication.
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