Calciferol: Frequently Asked Questions Answered
What is calciferol?
Calciferol is an alcoholic compound used as a supplement for vitamin D. Vitamin D maintains the health of bones. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that facilitates calcium and phosphorus absorption in the body. Our body requires exposure to sunlight to synthesise vitamin D. You can develop vitamin D deficiency because of limited exposure to sunlight and the low consumption of dietary sources. If you experience vitamin D deficiency, calciferol can be given as a supplement to maintain adequate vitamin D levels in the body.
What are the uses of calciferol?
Calciferol is beneficial for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in our bodies. It is given to treat the following conditions:
- Osteomalacia (bone disorder)
- Osteoporosis (bone loss)
- Rickets (bone softening because of vitamin D deficiency)
- Hypoparathyroidism (decreased thyroid gland functioning)
- Hypophosphatemia (low levels of phosphate)
Calciferol is also given to infants if their mother’s milk has reduced levels of vitamin D. Calciferol, along with other medications, is used to treat conditions caused by low levels of calcium or phosphate in patients with thyroid disorders (pseudohypoparathyroidism, familial hypophosphatemia and hypoparathyroidism).
If you have any of the above conditions and are worried about the side effects of the medication, book an appointment to get a free second opinion.