Ergocalciferol

Ergocalciferol

Ergocalciferol

Ergocalciferol was first described in 1936. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system. Ergocalciferol is available as a generic medication and over the counter. In 2016 it was the 56th most prescribed medication in the United States with more than 14 million prescriptions. Certain foods such as breakfast cereal and margarine have ergocalciferol added to them in some countries.

Ergocalciferol, also known as vitamin D2 and calciferol, is a type of vitamin D found in food and used as a dietary supplement. As a supplement it is used to prevent and treat vitamin D deficiency due to poor absorption by the intestines or liver disease. It may also be used for low blood calcium due to hypoparathyroidism. It is used by mouth or injection into a muscle.

Excessive doses can result in

• increased urine production,
• high blood pressure,
• kidney stones,
• kidney failure,
• weakness,
• constipation.

If high doses are taken for a long period of time, tissue calcification may occur. It is recommended that people on high doses have their blood calcium levels regularly checked. Normal doses are safe in pregnancy. It works by increasing the amount of calcium absorbed by the intestines and kidneys. Food in which it is found include some mushrooms.