Capsule

Merck Frosst

Ostoforte (vitamin D) is used in the management of low calcium levels in patients with low levels of parathyroid hormone and for the prevention and treatment of rickets, a vitamin D deficiency condition characterized by weak bones, deformed skeleton, bowed legs, deformed spine, "potbelly" appearance, sometimes flat feet, stunted growth, soft bones, and deformed joints.

Do not take Ostoforte (vitamin D) if you are allergic to any ingredient of Ostoforte (vitamin D) you are abnormally sensitive to the toxic effects of vitamin D you have high calcium levels you have evidence of vitamin D toxicity you have decreased kidney function you do not absorb vitamin D adequately

Before using Ostoforte (vitamin D), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you have any other medical conditions

Re-adjust therapeutic dosage of Ostoforte (vitamin D) as soon as there is clinical improvement. Individualize dosage levels and exercise great care to prevent serious toxic effects. When high therapeutic doses are used, follow progress with frequent serum and urinary calcium, potassium and urea determinations.

Other: Widespread calcification of the soft tissues, including the heart, blood vessels, renal tubules, and lungs.

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Ostoforte (vitamin D) you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Do not stop taking Ostoforte (vitamin D) without checking with your doctor. Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider. Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA): Adults (24 years of age or older): 200 IU; children and adults (1 to 24 years of age): 400 IU; pregnancy and lactation: 400 IU. Common sources of vitamin D - Fortified milk and milk products, eggs, sardines, fresh water fish, chicken livers, and cod liver oil. The total amount of vitamin D taken each day includes both dietary intake and supplements. Do not take more than the RDA unless advised by your doctor. Swallow Tablet whole. Do not crush or chew. Eating a balanced diet and periodic exposure to sunlight usually satisfies normal vitamin D requirements. Never use vitamin supplements as a substitute for a balanced diet. Compliance with dosage instruction, diet, and calcium supplementation are essential, especially in patients undergoing dialysis. Overdosage of any form of vitamin D is dangerous and can result in high blood calcium levels. Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occurs: Weakness; drowsiness; headache; metallic taste; appetite loss; weight loss; nausea; vomiting; stomach pain or cramps; diarrhea; constipation; disorientation; dizziness; thirst; excessive urine output; dry mouth; muscle or bone pain. Patients with digestive tract, liver, or bile disease associated with vitamin D malabsorption require the injected form of vitamin D. Other types of vitamin D-counting drugs (eg, multivitamins) should not be taken during ergocalciferol use. Avoid simultaneous use of mineral oil while taking this drug. Lab tests may be required. Be sure to keep appointments. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your doctor. Patients with previous conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Ostoforte (vitamin D). If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Store Ostoforte (vitamin D) between 59 and 86 degrees F. Protect from light.