What is Calciferol? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Calciferol overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Calcidol, Calciferol, Drisdol

Generic Names:

  • Ergocalciferol

Uses:

  • Increases the amount of vitamin D in your body. Also treats problems caused by not having enough calcium in the body (such as rickets). Ergocalciferol is a form of vitamin D.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Nutriceutical, Nutritive Agent

Forms:

  • Capsule, Liquid Filled Capsule, Liquid, Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Calciferol used for?

Ergocalciferol is a form of vitamin D used to treat and prevent rickets and osteomalacia. It is also used to treat low levels of calcium or phosphate caused by hypoparathyroidism, pseudohypoparathyroidism and familial hypophosphatemia. Ergocalciferol increases the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body. It is indicated for use by adults and children. This medication is available as a liquid.

What form(s) does Calciferol come in?

  • Capsule

  • Liquid Filled Capsule

  • Liquid

  • Tablet

What are common Calciferol dosages?

  • Bottle 60ML of 200MCG/ML

Calciferol images - What does Calciferol look like?

  • Calciferol
    60ml of 200mcg/ml bottle

How to take Calciferol

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.

  • Oral routeYou may take this medicine with or without food.

  • Use the dropper that comes with the oral liquid to measure your dose. This medicine may either be mixed with foods such as cereal and fruit juice or dropped into the mouth.

  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.

  • Oral routeYou may take this medicine with or without food.

  • Use the dropper that comes with the oral liquid to measure your dose. This medicine may either be mixed with foods such as cereal and fruit juice or dropped into the mouth.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

What to do if you miss a dose of Calciferol

  • Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Oral routeAsk your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Calciferol contraindications - Who shouldn't take Calciferol?

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to vitamin D.

Calciferol warnings

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • Make sure your doctor knows about all health problems that you have.

  • Cloudy urine.

  • Irregular heartbeat.

  • Severe stomach pain.

  • Weakness, headache, extreme tiredness.

Calciferol interactions & what to avoid when taking Calciferol

  • Avoid antacids that contain aluminum (such as Amphojel®, Maalox®, Mylanta®) while using this medicine.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using carbamazepine (Tegretol®), cholestyramine (Questran®), mineral oil, orlistat (Xenical®), phenobarbital (Luminal®, Solfoton®), or a diuretic or "water pill" (such as hydrochlorothiazide [HCTZ]).

Calciferol side effects - How does Calciferol make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

  • Severe stomach pain.

  • Weakness, headache, extreme tiredness.

  • Cloudy urine.

  • Irregular heartbeat.

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Bone pain.

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Diarrhea or constipation.

  • Nausea and vomiting.

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