Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is a fat-soluble vitamin synthesized naturally in the skin upon exposure to sunlight. It is essential for calcium and phosphorus homeostasis, bone mineralization, and supporting neuromuscular and immune functions. It is commonly used as a dietary supplement or therapeutic agent for osteoporosis, rickets, and latent tetany.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosages are highly individualized and depend on age, severity of deficiency, and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. Prophylactic daily doses typically range from 400 IU to 2000 IU. High-dose therapeutic regimens (e.g., 50,000 IU weekly) require strict medical supervision. Administering with a fat-containing meal significantly enhances absorption.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 400 IU (10 mcg) daily
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Standard preventative dose for breastfed infants to prevent rickets. Use liquid drops formulated for infants and consult a pediatrician.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 400 IU (10 mcg) daily
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor total daily intake if the child is consuming vitamin-fortified infant formula.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 400 IU to 600 IU (10-15 mcg) daily
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- RDA for children over 12 months is 600 IU. Adjust dose based on diet and sun exposure.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 600 IU (15 mcg) daily
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure adequate dietary calcium intake for optimal efficacy of the vitamin.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 600 IU (15 mcg) daily
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- The tolerable upper intake limit for children aged 1-8 years is 2500 IU to 3000 IU per day.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 400 IU (10 mcg) daily | Once daily | Standard preventative dose for breastfed infants to prevent rickets. Use liquid drops formulated for infants and consult a pediatrician. |
| 5-7 kg | 400 IU (10 mcg) daily | Once daily | Monitor total daily intake if the child is consuming vitamin-fortified infant formula. |
| 8-10 kg | 400 IU to 600 IU (10-15 mcg) daily | Once daily | RDA for children over 12 months is 600 IU. Adjust dose based on diet and sun exposure. |
| 11-15 kg | 600 IU (15 mcg) daily | Once daily | Ensure adequate dietary calcium intake for optimal efficacy of the vitamin. |
| 16-20 kg | 600 IU (15 mcg) daily | Once daily | The tolerable upper intake limit for children aged 1-8 years is 2500 IU to 3000 IU per day. |
Formulation
Purpose
Prevention and treatment of Vitamin D deficiency, supporting calcium absorption, maintaining bone and teeth health, and regulating immune system function.
Generic Name
CholecalciferolBranded Drug Names
Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.