Available Brands
Did you find this information helpful?
Author Details

Written By
P. Thirumal Reddy
B. Pharm

Reviewed By
Dr. Tejashwin Adiga
MBBS
Last updated : 31 Mar 2026 | 09:31 AM (IST)

Want to know more?
Read Our Editorial Policy
Quick Summary
CHOLECALCIFEROL
Last updated on 31 Mar 2026 | 09:31 AM (IST)
CHOLECALCIFEROL
Background and Date of approval CHOLECALCIFEROL
The U.S. FDA-approved Cholecalciferol for Vitamin D deficiency. Cholecalciferol belongs to the medication class known as vitamin D analogs.Â
Uses of CHOLECALCIFEROL
Cholecalciferol is used to prevent and treat Vitamin D deficiency. It is also used to treat certain bone conditions, including osteoporosis (thinning of the bone) when given with other medicines.Â
How is CHOLECALCIFEROL administered?
Take the Cholecalciferol as your physician advises. Usually, the tablets will be taken with or without food. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.
Side Effects of CHOLECALCIFEROL
Serious side effects while taking Cholecalciferol are swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty swallowing, hives, and difficulty breathing.Â
Warnings
Do not consume Cholecalciferol if you are allergic to Cholecalciferol or any of its ingredients. Avoid consuming this medicine if you have high levels of vitamin D ( (hypervitaminosis D), or calcium (hypercalcemia) or high urine levels of calcium (hypercalciuria) in your blood and if you have kidney stones or have serious kidney problems. Extra vitamin D should not be taken without your doctor's supervision, as it can harm your baby. Due to their high strength, Colecalciferol 20,000 IU capsules are not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Precautions
Before taking Colecalciferol, notify your doctor if you have kidney damage, are receiving treatment for heart disease, have sarcoidosis, or are already taking additional calcium or vitamin D doses. Your doctor will monitor the blood or blood calcium levels during the treatment. This medicine should be used cautiously in kidney patients. Before starting the treatment, inform your doctor about pre-existing kidney conditions. Notifying your doctor if you are pregnant and breastfeeding before taking this medicine.Â
Word of Advice
Kidney patients should take Cholecalciferol cautiously and inform their doctor about all the underlying medical conditions. Do not stop the medicine until your doctor advises. Do not double-dose the medicine to make up for a forgotten dose. Notify your doctor if you experience any serious side effects. Your medical professional will inform you if you need any dose adjustments. Contact your doctor for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.
How to manage the side effects of Cholecalciferol?
To manage the side effects of Cholecalciferol, follow the prescribed dosage, and report side effects promptly. Stay hydrated, and monitor blood pressure regularly. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, and attend follow-up appointments.Â
Q2.
Is cholecalciferol vitamin d3?Â
Cholecalciferol is commonly known as vitamin D3, which is the natural form of vitamin D produced by the body and found in certain foods and supplements.
Q3.
Can you take Cholecalciferol when pregnant? Â
Consult your medical professional regarding the use of Cholecalciferol during pregnancy. The potential benefits and risks should be carefully assessed. Your doctor will suggest taking this medicine only if it's necessary.Â
Q4.
What are the side effects of Cholecalciferol?
Common side effects of Cholecalciferol include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty swallowing, hives, and difficulty breathing. It is crucial to consult your doctor for any concerns or persistent side effects.
Q5.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Cholecalciferol?Â
If you miss a capsule dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose the Cholecalciferol.
References
- Strides Pharma UK Ltd, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on December 2022] [Accessed on 12th June 2023], pil.14393.pdf (medicines.org.uk)
- KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Drugs affecting calcium balance, 7th edition, 2013, 340 - 343.
- Satyanarayana U, Chakrapani U, Biochemistry, Chemical constituents of life, 4th edition, 2013, 116-165.
- Colonis Pharma Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [ Revised on June 2019] [ Accessed on 19th June 2021], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7247.pdf
Disclaimer
The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.






