Has your doctor told you or your baby to take vitamin D drops? Or do you think that the reason you are constantly feeling tired and have body aches could be a vitamin D deficiency? Many people are not aware of the importance of vitamin D. So today, let's talk about what vitamin D is, how to use this medicine, and what things to be careful about.
What is vitamin D? Why is it important for us?
Simply put, vitamin D is a drug that is given to prevent and treat low levels of vitamin D in our body. But its function is much more complex than that.
Think of calcium as the building blocks of our bones. Vitamin D is like the gatekeeper that lets those bricks into the body. Without vitamin D, no matter how much milk you drink or how many calcium pills you take, your body won't be able to absorb the calcium properly. So vitamin D is essential for building strong bones and keeping them healthy.
Not only that, but vitamin D also helps strengthen our immune system and maintain brain health . Therefore, it is very important for everyone, from young children to the elderly.
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before using vitamin D drops, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following health conditions, as you should be especially careful when using this medication during these times.
| Your medical condition | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| Increased calcium levels in the blood | Because vitamin D increases calcium absorption, it can be dangerous if calcium levels are already high. |
| Increased blood vitamin D levels | Taking extra vitamin D can cause toxicity. |
| Kidney disease | Because the kidneys control vitamin D and calcium metabolism, kidney patients may require special dosages. |
| Liver disease or gallbladder disease | Vitamin D requires fat for absorption, and these medical conditions can affect fat absorption. |
| Inflammatory bowel disease - e.g. Crohn's disease, Ulcerative colitis | These diseases can impair nutrient absorption, so your doctor should be aware of this. |
| Allergies to vitamin D or other substances | Be sure to tell us if you have any allergies to vitamin D, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives. |
| Being pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | In such cases, it is very important to seek the doctor's advice about the use of medications. |
How exactly do you use this medicine?
This is very simple, but it's important to do it right.
- This medicine should be taken by mouth.
- Try to take it at the same time every day , as prescribed by the doctor. That way, you won't forget.
- Take it with a meal. It's best to take it with a fatty food, especially if you're taking it with a fatty meal. This is because vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. This means that the body needs some fat to absorb it properly. For example, you can take it with something like milk, yogurt, cheese, or butter.
- Shake the bottle well before use.
- To measure the dose, use the special dropper, spoon, or oral syringe that comes with it. Household teaspoons and tablespoons will not work for this. They will not give you an accurate measurement.
- Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
Children may need special care when giving this medicine, so be sure to discuss the dosage and method of administration with your doctor.
If the dosage of the medicine is increased (Overdose)
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not take it lightly. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Other medications that may interact with vitamin D
When you take vitamin D, it can interact with other medications you are taking. So it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.
| Type of medicine/substance | Why should you care? |
|---|---|
| Types of Antacids | Because some antacids contain magnesium, taking them with vitamin D can increase blood magnesium levels. |
| Diuretics | Some types can increase calcium levels in the blood. |
| Cholesterol-lowering medications (e.g., Cholestyramine, Colestipol) | These can reduce vitamin D absorption. |
| Medicines for epilepsy (e.g. Phenytoin) | These can speed up the breakdown of vitamin D in the body. |
| Orlistat, Mineral oil | Because these reduce fat absorption, they can also affect vitamin D absorption. |
What are the possible side effects?
Most people don't experience serious side effects from vitamin D. But it's good to be aware of the possible side effects.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat. |
| Symptoms of high blood calcium levels | Excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, confusion, unusual weakness, and bone pain. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Constipation | Dry stomach. |
| Loss of appetite | Decreased appetite. |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
How do you store and remove the medicine?
Keep the medicine bottle in a safe place out of reach of children and pets. Do not use expired medicine. When disposing of it, mix the medicine with something like used tea leaves or coffee grounds, put it in a tightly sealed bag, and throw it in the trash. Never flush it down the toilet.
Take-Home Message
- Vitamin D is essential for a strong bone system and good immunity.
- Always take the dose prescribed by your doctor, at the prescribed time. Absorption is enhanced by taking it with a fatty meal.
- Use only the dropper or special spoon that comes with the medicine to measure the dose.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking and any medical conditions you may have.
- If you experience any allergic symptoms or symptoms of high blood calcium levels (excessive thirst, vomiting, lethargy), seek medical advice immediately.
- Never take more than the prescribed dose. In case of accidental overdose, immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre or the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU).
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