Oleovit D3 (Colecalciferol)

Oleovit D3 (colecalciferol) is used to correct or prevent vitamin D deficiency, a condition that affects calcium balance and bone health.

• Vitamin D deficiency: restores adequate serum 25‑hydroxyvitamin D concentrations.
• Osteomalacia in adults: aids mineralisation of bone matrix.
• Rickets in children: supports normal bone growth and mineralisation.
• Secondary hypocalcaemia associated with hypoparathyroidism: helps maintain calcium levels.
• Chronic kidney disease‑related low vitamin D: supplements the reduced endogenous synthesis.

• Colecalciferol is absorbed in the intestine and converted in the liver to 25‑hydroxyvitamin D, the main circulating form. It is further hydroxylated in the kidney to the active hormone 1,25‑dihydroxyvitamin D, which binds to the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in target cells, regulating gene transcription that enhances intestinal calcium and phosphate absorption and modulates bone remodeling.

Adverse reactions to Oleovit D3 are generally uncommon but may occur.

Common Side Effects

• Hypercalcaemia: elevated blood calcium levels.
• Nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Headache.
• Fatigue.
• Mild rash or itching.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe hypercalcaemia with cardiac arrhythmia.
• Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones).
• Hypercalciuria leading to renal impairment.
• Acute pancreatitis.
• Anaphylactic reaction.
• Persistent vomiting or dehydration.

When using Oleovit D3, consider the following safety measures.

• Monitor serum calcium and 25‑hydroxyvitamin D levels: adjust dose if elevated.
• Avoid use in patients with known hypercalcaemia: risk of worsening calcium overload.
• Caution in renal impairment: reduced conversion to active form may require monitoring.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women: use only if clearly indicated by a healthcare professional.
• Concomitant use with thiazide diuretics: may increase calcium retention.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Oleovit D3 may interact with several medicines, altering calcium balance or vitamin D metabolism.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Thiazide diuretics: can exacerbate hypercalcaemia.
• Vitamin D intoxication from high‑dose supplements.
• Granulomatous diseases (e.g., sarcoidosis) treated with steroids: increased conversion to active vitamin D.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Anticonvulsants (phenytoin, phenobarbital): may increase vitamin D catabolism.
• Corticosteroids: can reduce vitamin D effectiveness.
• Orlistat: may decrease absorption of fat‑soluble vitamins.",