Home
Treatments, Tests, and Procedures
List of Medicines
Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) Current Page

Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3)

Supportive Care Nutritional supplement

Brand names:

Various brands can be found at stores and pharmacies

Often used for:

Treatment or prevention of vitamin D deficiency

What is cholecalciferol (vitamin D3)?

Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) is a form of vitamin D. It has several roles in the body including helping the body absorb calcium for bone health. Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) is used as a dietary supplement for people who do not get enough vitamin D in their diet. Foods that are high in vitamin D include egg yolks, fatty fish, fortified milk, and fortified cereal. Vitamin D is also produced naturally when the body is exposed to sunlight.

If your child doesn’t get enough vitamin D, they have a higher risk of bone conditions such as rickets or osteoporosis. Vitamin D also plays a role in the wellness of nerves, muscles, and immune system.

May be given as a chewable tablet by mouth

May be given as a chewable gummy by mouth

May be given as a tablet or capsule by mouth

May be given as a liquid by mouth

Possible side effects

Many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, hives, itching, runny nose, fever, chills, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, dizziness, low blood pressure, pain in the chest, side, or back, swelling of the face or neck.

Report any symptoms of an allergic reaction to your care provider or pharmacist. Find more information on side effects.

Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist.