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In this Article

• What is ergocalciferol (Calciferol)?
• What are the possible side effects of ergocalciferol (Calciferol)?
• What is the most important information I should know about ergocalciferol (Calciferol)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ergocalciferol (Calciferol)?
• How should I take ergocalciferol (Calciferol)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Calciferol)?
• What happens if I overdose (Calciferol)?
• What should I avoid while taking ergocalciferol (Calciferol)?
• What other drugs will affect ergocalciferol (Calciferol)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ergocalciferol (Calciferol)?

Do not use this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to vitamin D, or if you have:

• high levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia);
• high levels of vitamin D in your body (hypervitaminosis D); or
• any condition that makes it hard for your body to absorb nutrients from food (malabsorption).

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take ergocalciferol:

• heart disease;
• coronary artery disease;
• kidney disease; or
• an electrolyte imbalance.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether ergocalciferol is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Ergocalciferol passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take ergocalciferol (Calciferol)?

Take this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. You may also need x-rays. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Ergocalciferol is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include other medications and a special diet. It is very important to follow the medication and diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutrition counselor. You should become very familiar with the list of foods you must eat or avoid to help control your condition.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture, light, and heat.