Cholecalciferol is a vitamin D3. Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and for the functioning of calcium in the body.

Cholecalciferol is used to treat or prevent many conditions caused by a lack of vitamin D, especially conditions of the skin or bones.

Cholecalciferol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Do not use this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to vitamin D, or if you have high levels of calcium or vitamin D in your blood, or if you have any condition that makes it hard for your body to absorb nutrients from food (malabsorption).

Before taking cholecalciferol, tell your doctor if you have heart disease, kidney disease, or an electrolyte imbalance.

Do not take other vitamin or mineral supplements unless your doctor has told you to.

Avoid using calcium supplements or antacids without your doctor's advice. Use only the specific type of supplement or antacid your doctor recommends. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of vitamin D can cause serious or life-threatening side effects.

Overdose symptoms may include headache, weakness, drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, constipation, muscle or bone pain, metallic taste in the mouth, weight loss, itchy skin, changes in heart rate, loss of interest in sex, confusion, unusual thoughts or behavior, severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back, or fainting.

Do not use this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to vitamin D, or if you have:

• high levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia);

• high levels of vitamin D in your body (hypervitaminosis D); or

• any condition that makes it hard for your body to absorb nutrients from food (malabsorption).

To make sure you can safely take cholecalciferol, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• heart disease;

• kidney disease; or

• an electrolyte imbalance.

Your cholecalciferol dose needs may change if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment, or if you are breast-feeding a baby.