Hidroferol (Calcifediol)

Hidroferol is used primarily to correct or prevent low levels of vitamin D in the body, especially when natural synthesis is inadequate.

• Treatment of documented vitamin D deficiency in adults.
• Prevention of deficiency in individuals with limited sun exposure.
• Support of calcium and phosphate balance in patients with osteomalacia risk.
• Adjunct supplementation for elderly persons at risk of bone loss.
• Management of secondary hyperparathyroidism related to low vitamin D.
• Supplementation during pregnancy or lactation when vitamin D requirements are increased, under medical supervision.

• Calcifediol, the active ingredient in Hidroferol, is the 25‑hydroxy form of vitamin D3 that circulates in plasma. After oral absorption, it bypasses hepatic 25‑hydroxylation and is directly available for conversion by 1α‑hydroxylase in the kidney to calcitriol, the hormonally active 1,25‑dihydroxyvitamin D. The resulting calcitriol binds to the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in target tissues, regulating gene transcription that enhances intestinal calcium and phosphate absorption and modulates bone remodeling.

Like other vitamin D analogs, Hidroferol may cause adverse reactions, most of which are mild and reversible.

Common

• Mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea or abdominal cramps.
• Transient headache or dizziness.
• Slight increase in serum calcium leading to mild hypercalcemia symptoms (e.g., thirst).
• Skin rash or mild itching at the site of irritation.

Serious

• Persistent hypercalcemia with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, polyuria, and confusion.
• Kidney stones or renal impairment due to elevated calcium levels.
• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) presenting with swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives.

Before using Hidroferol, certain health conditions and circumstances should be considered to minimize risk.

• Assess baseline serum calcium and 25‑hydroxyvitamin D levels.
• Use caution in patients with a history of hypercalcemia or kidney stones.
• Avoid use in individuals with severe renal impairment without medical supervision.
• Monitor calcium status during prolonged therapy, especially in the elderly.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation.
• Concomitant use with high‑dose calcium supplements may increase hypercalcemia risk.

Hidroferol can affect the activity or levels of other substances; some combinations should be avoided, while others require careful monitoring.

Avoid

• High‑dose calcium or vitamin D preparations that may cause excess calcium.
• Thiazide diuretics, which reduce calcium excretion and increase hypercalcemia risk.
• Lithium therapy, which can alter calcium metabolism.
• Orlistat, which impairs fat absorption and may reduce calcifediol uptake.

Use with caution

• Anticonvulsants such as phenytoin or phenobarbital that increase vitamin D catabolism.
• Corticosteroids, which may reduce vitamin D effectiveness.
• Bisphosphonates, where combined effects on bone metabolism need monitoring.
• Cholestyramine or other bile acid sequestrants that may lower absorption of fat‑soluble vitamins.