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Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Your dosage is based on your medical condition, amount of sun exposure, diet, age, and response to treatment. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Follow all directions on the product package. Vitamin D is best absorbed when taken after a meal but may be taken with or without food. Vitamin D drops (or other supplements) are given to breast-fed infants because breast milk usually has low levels of vitamin D. It may be used in kidney disease to keep calcium levels normal and allow normal bone growth.
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Vitamin D is also used with other medications to treat low levels of calcium or phosphate caused by certain disorders (such as hypoparathyroidism, pseudohypoparathyroidism, familial hypophosphatemia). Vitamin D with calcium is used to treat or prevent bone loss (osteoporosis). Sunscreen, protective clothing, limited exposure to sunlight, dark skin, and age may prevent getting enough vitamin D from the sun. Vitamin D is made by the body when skin is exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D is used to treat and prevent bone disorders (such as rickets, osteomalacia). Having the right amount of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus is important for building and keeping strong bones.
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Vitamin D (ergocalciferol-D2, cholecalciferol-D3, alfacalcidol) is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your body absorb calcium and phosphorus.
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