Calciferol

Other Names: Ergocalciferol, Drisdol, Alfa Calcidol.

Commonly Prescribed For: Calciferol is generally prescribed for treating hypoparathyroidism (a condition where the parathyroid glands works less). This medication can also be used for treating rickets (vitamin D deficiency that leads to the softening of bones) and hypophosphatemia. Calciferol is commonly used with other medications.

How to Take it: Calciferol is available in the form of a tablet, a capsule and as a liquid to be taken via mouth, either with food or without food. Chew and crush the chewable tablet before swallowing. Take Calciferol as prescribed, around the same time daily.

How it Works: Calciferol works in such a manner to absorb calcium from the stomach. This can lead to the working of calcium in the body.

Some Side Effects: Common side effects include hives, inflammation of the face, or throat, and difficulty breathing. Some serious side effects include excessive thirst, weight loss, and metallic taste in mouth, weakness, and changes in behavior, shortness of breath, thinking problems, poor appetite, muscle problems, vomiting, bone pain, constipation, nausea, and tiredness, a need to urinate and sore eyes.