1. Why is vitamin D called calciferol?
Calciferol is an alcoholic compound used as a supplement in the diet for vitamin D. It is synthesised by irradiating ergosterol. The name calciferol is a combination of calciferous and ergosterol. Vitamin D is also known as calciferol, as the functions of vitamin D are performed by calciferol.
2. Do you need a prescription for calciferol?
Calciferol is not recommended for people with high vitamin D levels. Taking the supplement without a prescription can lead to an overdose, probably causing a serious health condition known as hypercalcemia (vitamin D toxicity). A calciferol overdose can also affect infants during breastfeeding. Therefore, you should consult your doctor and take calciferol with a prescription to avoid future consequences.
3. How long does calciferol take to work?
The first dose of calciferol takes up to 24 to 30 hours to reach your bloodstream. The levels of this supplement increase gradually in your body. Therefore, consult your doctor to know the ideal dosage of calciferol that you should take every day. On average, patients must take this medication for 3-4 months to maintain the required vitamin D levels in the body.
4. Can I take calciferol at night?
You must avoid taking calciferol at night because it may affect your sleep cycle. The best time to take calciferol is at breakfast or lunch. Your body can easily absorb the drug when your diet includes a good amount of fats.
5. Is calciferol a steroid?
Yes, calciferol is a steroid molecule that helps maintain calcium and phosphorus levels in the body. It also helps in the mineralisation of the bones in newborn babies and people with vitamin D deficiency and thyroid disorders (such as hypoparathyroidism, pseudohypoparathyroidism and familial hypophosphatemia).
6. Does calcitriol affect kidneys?
Calcitriol is absorbed in the liver and kidney to avoid the excessive loss of calcium and phosphorus from the blood. Thus, it can have a mild effect on the kidneys. You should take calcitriol after consulting your doctor because its overdose can affect your kidneys.
If you are worried about the side effects of calcitriol, you can get a free second opinion at Yashoda Hospitals.
7. Can we take calcitriol daily?
Calcitriol is generally taken once a day. However, you should consult your doctor before taking the supplement. The dosage will be specifically prescribed based on the amount of vitamin D required by your body. You should carefully follow the dosage and instructions given by the doctor for good results.
8. Does calcitriol lower blood pressure?
No, calcitriol does not lower blood pressure levels. A meta-analysis performed by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention concluded that calcitriol does not affect blood pressure levels in your body.
9. Is calcitriol used for osteoporosis?
Yes, calcitriol is used as a supplement to treat osteoporosis (a condition caused by calcium deficiency). Osteoporosis leads to weak and brittle bones. Calcitriol is particularly recommended to women post-menopause because their bone density is heavily affected.
10. Does calcitriol increase bone calcium levels?
Yes, calcitriol increases calcium levels in bones. It is achieved by the dimerisation of vitamin D receptors present in the bones, which increases the maximum absorption of calcium in the blood.
