Calciferol is the brand name for a generic drug named ergocalciferol solution. It is a synthetic version of vitamin D and is prescribed to patients with vitamin deficiency, hypocalcaemia, parathyroidism, hypophosphatemia (low phosphate levels), and others. It is used to treat rickets and is often prescribed with calcium supplementation in order to improve bone health. Ergocalciferol is vitamin D2. It improves absorption of calcium by increasing the levels of serum calcium. It also increases levels of phosphorus in the bloodstream. With optimum levels of vitamin D2, there is adequate reabsorption of calcium in the kidneys and better absorption of phosphorus and calcium in the intestines. Ergocalciferol is a fat soluble steroid hormone and binds to a receptor in the intestine thereby promoting better absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Side effects of this medication include dizziness, weakness, tiredness, and excess urination, lack of appetite, weight loss, headache, confusion, constipation, and bone pain. Allergic reactions include tightness in chest and throat, hives, itching, rashes, difficulty breathing, swelling in mouth, throat, face, tongue or lips, and peeling of skin among others. People with diabetes experience a reduction of bone mineral density. Also, some evidence suggests that vitamin D deficiency might be a contributing factor for the genesis of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Vitamin D is supposed to improve insulin resistance and glucose tolerance. Since calcium also plays a major role in the process of insulin secretion, it is known that vitamin D can improve insulin secretion. Vitamin D is even known to enhance the insulin responsiveness for glucose transport. Vitamin D is known to improve bone mineral density reducing the risk of fractures in people with diabetes. It assists in weight loss and reducing abdominal fat, and regulates appetite.
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