Drug Updates

Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is available in 50,000-IU capsules (by prescription) and 8,000 IUs per mL in an over-the-counter (OTC) liquid. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is available as OTC capsules containing 2,000 IUs, 5,000 IUs, or 10,000 IUs; drops are also available. Calcitriol, the vitamin D metabolite (1,25 [OH]₂D3), is available by prescription in capsules containing 0.25 mcg and 0.5 mcg; a solution is available containing 1 mcg per mL as is an injectable form (1- and 2-mcg/mL in 1- mL vials). Calcitriol can be used for patients with severe liver disease or chronic renal failure.

Michele Kaufman is a freelance medical writer based in New York City.

References

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