Cholecalciferol, or vitamin D3, is a supplement prescribed for those with a deficiency. Lack of sunlight or difficulty absorbing nutrients can cause a deficiency. Side effects include mental changes, nausea, vomiting, and potential overdose, which can be life-threatening.
Cholecalciferol, also commonly referred to as vitamin D3, is a medical supplement that is often prescribed if a person has a lack of vitamin D3 in the body. The vitamin can be absorbed by the body through contact with sunlight and the consumption of certain foods, such as eggs or fish oil; therefore, lack of sunlight or a condition that causes difficulty absorbing nutrients from food can result in a vitamin deficiency and require dietary supplements. While the drug is generally considered to be a safe and important option for those with vitamin D3 deficiencies, there are some common cholecalciferol side effects that can occur.
Vitamin D3 is primarily responsible for the formation of bones and teeth, and a vitamin deficiency can cause conditions such as rickets, which causes bones to soften, or osteoporosis, a disease that makes bones less able to absorb calcium and more prone to breakage. To prevent complications, such as changes in bone structure or broken bones, people with these conditions are usually prescribed cholecalciferol. Doctors generally warn these patients that side effects of cholecalciferol can affect both mental and physical health. The most common mental health side effects include increased irritability, trouble concentrating on tasks, and other unexpected changes in mood or memory.
While not generally considered serious enough to require immediate medical attention, other common physical side effects of cholecalciferol can also occur after taking the drug; however, they usually subside on their own after regular use as the body adjusts to the drug. If symptoms do not go away over time or if they start to get worse, medical care may be recommended. These side effects can include nausea, vomiting, or changes in appetite, which can potentially lead to unhealthy weight loss. Other side effects that may occur include unexplained fatigue, urinating more often than normal, shortness of breath, and chest pain or tightness.
A vitamin D3 overdose is another of the side effects of cholecalciferol that can occur if the drug is not taken properly according to the dosing instructions. Although vitamin D3 is an essential nutrient for the body, if too much of it builds up in the bloodstream, it can cause symptoms such as weakness or pain in muscles or bones, a strange metallic taste in the mouth, constipation, vomiting, abnormal or rapid heartbeat weight loss. A cholecalciferol overdose can potentially be life-threatening, and emergency medical help is usually advised if a person experiences symptoms of an overdose.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
