OSTELIN ® - Ergocalciferol

OSTELIN ® is a drug based on Ergocalciferol

THERAPEUTIC GROUP: Vitamin D

IndicationsAction mechanismStudies and clinical effectiveness Usage and dosage instructionsWarnings Pregnancy and lactationInteractionsContraindicationsUndesirable effects

Indications OSTELIN ® - Ergocalciferol

OSTELIN ® is used in all pathological conditions due to a lack of vitamin D2, such as rickets, osteomalacia, osteopenia and calcium-phosphorus metabolism alterations.

Mechanism of action OSTELIN ® - Ergocalciferol

The ergocalciferol, also known as vitamin D2, is one of the compounds that is part of the large vitamin group synthetically defined as vitamin D and characterized by an excellent biological activity.

More precisely, this molecule, obtained following the irradiation with ultraviolet of the ergosterol, before being able to carry out its own biological activity must undergo a process of hydroxylation at the renal level which makes it biologically active.

At this point active vitamin D can:

Promote calcium reabsorption at the renal level;
Increase the intestinal absorption of phosphorus and calcium;
Address cell differentiation, acting in a similar way to steroid hormones.

The lipophilic nature of the molecule allows the calciferol to be able to accumulate mainly in organs such as the liver or adipose tissue, and to be mobilized in case of need.

Studies carried out and clinical efficacy

1. ACUTE ASSUMPTION OF ERGOCALCIFEROL

Study that supports the intake of megadoses of ergocalciferol in a single administration in the treatment of vitamin D deficiency associated with severe liver disease.

2. ERGOCALCIFEROL AND CHRONIC RENAL DISORDERS

Work demonstrating the efficacy of treatment with ergocalciferol in patients with vitamin D deficiency suffering from chronic renal failure in the predialitic phase.

3. ERGOCALCIFEROL AND MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

The reduced exposure to ultraviolet light seems to correlate with a greater incidence of multiple sclerosis cases. In this study we wanted to evaluate the role of vitamin D2 in the genesis of this disease. Unfortunately, the administration of this high-dose vitamin has not brought significant benefits.

Method of use and dosage

OSTELIN ®

Vials for intramuscular use from 400, 000 IU of ergocalciferol:

vitamin D2 deficiency can be compensated for by administering 800, 000 IU (2 vials) in one go or by prolonged administration of a vial every 2 - 3 days.

The definition of the precise therapeutic scheme must be formulated by the physician based on the patient's clinical picture and the related needs.

Use in children must take place under the supervision of a specialist doctor.

Warnings OSTELIN ® - Ergocalciferol

The important renal metabolism to which vitamin D2 is subjected could be the cause of fatigue and consequent reduction of renal function in elderly patients or those with various degrees of renal disease.

Continuous monitoring of blood concentrations of calcium, phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase is necessary to avoid the appearance of more serious side effects.

PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING

Vitamin D2 intake during pregnancy should be under close medical supervision in order to avoid possible fetal poisoning due to aortic valve stenosis, retinopathy, hypoparathyroidism and growth retardation.

Interactions

It is useful to remember that the intake of certain drugs such as antiepileptics and barbiturates could increase the need for vitamin D, while particular attention should be paid to the possible administration of active ingredients capable of modulating calcium absorption.

Contraindications OSTELIN ® - Ergocalciferol

OSTELIN ® is contraindicated in case of hypercalcemia or hypersensitivity to the active substance or to one of its excipients.

Undesirable effects - Side effects

The administration of vitamin D2, according to the correct therapeutic schemes, is rarely associated with the appearance of nausea, diarrhea, anorexia, weight loss, polyuria, sweating, headache, thirst and dizziness which however disappear reducing the frequency of recruitment.

The acute intake at high doses or prolonged over time could be responsible for hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria and hyperfostatemia thus favoring the calcification of various tissues.