OPT-D 200,000 IU capsule 1s

Introduction

Expert Advice

• Some medicines (bile acid sequestrants like cholestyramine/colestipol, mineral oil, orlistat) may decrease the vitamin D absorption. That’s why it is advised to take doses of these medications as far away from vitamin D doses (at least 2 hours apart or longer).
• It is easiest if you take vitamin D at bedtime when you are taking other medications.
• Always ask your doctor or pharmacist for a medicine schedule so that you can take all your medicines on time without the risk of interacting together.
• Don’t take other supplements/vitamins unless doctor has prescribed. Also if a special diet (such as high in calcium diet) is prescribed by the doctor, then follow it properly to get most benefit of the medication & to prevent serious side-effects.

Primary Uses

Indications

This medication contains Vitamin D in it which is a fat soluble vitamin that will help to absorb calcium and phosphorus in body. It is used for preventing and treating bone disorders like rickets (softening and weakening of bones in children), osteomalacia (softening of bones due to vitamin D deficiency), osteoporosis (bone loss). It may also be used with other medicines for treating low levels of calcium or phosphate in disorders like hypoparathyroidism (low levels of parathyroid hormone), pseudohypoparathyroidism (resistance to the parathyroid hormone), familial hypophosphatemia (a group of  rare inherited disorders) and in kidney disease to allow normal bone growth by keeping calcium levels normal.

Side Effects

If vitamin D is taken at normal doses, they show no side effects. But if you experience any unusual effects then consult your prescriber right away. Taking too much vitamin D can lead to harmful high levels of calcium. In case of signs of high vitamin D/calcium levels occur like nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, increase in thirst, increased urination, constipation, mental or mood changes & unusual tiredness, then tell your doctor right away. A very serious allergic reaction with this is rare. But if you notice symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, severe dizziness; then get medical help.

Contraindications

This medication is contraindicated in patients with sarcoidosis (growth of tiny collections of inflammatory cells), high amount of phosphate in the blood, high amount of calcium in the blood, excessive amount of vitamin D in the body, a blockage of the arteries called arteriosclerosis obliterans, kidney stones and decreased kidney function.

FAQS

What should be taken with vitamin D3?

As vitamin D3 is a fat-soluble vitamin i.e. it will not dissolve in water and will be well absorbed in blood when taken with high-fat containing foods. That’s why Vitamin D supplements are recommended to take with meal for better absorption.

Can vitamin D3 injection be safe?

In a study, it is shown that once a year intramuscular cholecalciferol injection (600,000 IU) will be effective therapy in vitamin D deficiency.

What are the side effects of vitamin D injection?

Mostly there are no side effects experienced, unless taken too much. It may include weakness, fatigue, sleepiness, headache, loss of appetite, metallic taste and dry mouth.

How is vitamin D shot given?

In adults and teenagers, at first, 0.5 mcg is injected in the vein 3 times per week. Doctor may change dose as needed. In children its use and dose should be determined by a doctor.

What signs indicated low vitamin D?

Signs like fatigue, bone pain, muscle weakness, muscle aches, muscle cramps, mood changes like depression.