Vitamin D2 Side Effects

Generic name: ergocalciferol

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 27, 2023.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Vitamin D2 Side Effects associated with ergocalciferol. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Vitamin D2.

Applies to ergocalciferol: oral capsule, oral capsule liquid filled, oral liquid, oral solution, oral tablet.

Serious side effects of Vitamin D2

Along with its needed effects, ergocalciferol (the active ingredient contained in Vitamin D2) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking ergocalciferol:

Incidence not known

• bloody or cloudy urine
• blurred vision
• decrease in height
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• frequent urination
• increased thirst
• increased urge to urinate during the night
• increased volume of pale, dilute urine
• loss of appetite
• nervousness
• pain in the back, ribs, arms, or legs
• pain in the lower back or side
• pounding in the ears
• slow growth in children
• slow or fast heartbeat
• swelling of the face, fingers, or lower legs
• trouble breathing
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• vomiting
• waking to urinate at night
• weight gain

Other side effects of Vitamin D2

Some side effects of ergocalciferol may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Incidence not known

• constipation
• weight loss

For healthcare professionals

Applies to ergocalciferol: compounding powder, injectable solution, oral capsule, oral solution, oral tablet.

Metabolic adverse events

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Hypercalcemia
• Frequency not reported: Hypervitaminosis D^[Ref]

Hypervitaminosis D is characterized by: impairment of renal function with polyuria, nocturia, polydipsia, hypercalciuria, reversible azotemia, hypertension, nephrocalcinosis, generalized vascular calcification, or irreversible renal insufficiency which may result in death; intellectual disability; widespread calcification of the soft tissues, including the heart, blood vessels, renal tubules, and lungs; bone demineralization (osteoporosis) in adults; decline in the average rate of linear growth and increased mineralization of bones in infants and children (dwarfism), vague aches, stiffness, and weakness; nausea, anorexia, constipation; and mild acidosis, anemia, and weight loss.^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Hypercalciuria^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Pruritus, rash, urticaria^[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

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Further information

Vitamin D2 side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer