Ergocalciferol with calcium lactate and calcium phosphate

How it works

Ergocalciferol is converted to active vitamin D metabolites that enhance intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphate, while the calcium salts directly supply elemental calcium for bone mineralisation.

Prescribing in practice

• Avoid in hypercalcaemia, hypercalciuria and conditions with vitamin D oversensitivity, as the combined calcium and vitamin D load can precipitate or worsen hypercalcaemia.
• Calcium salts reduce absorption of oral tetracyclines, levothyroxine, bisphosphonates and some quinolones, so separate administration times.
• Use with caution in renal impairment, sarcoidosis and a history of calcium-containing renal stones.

Monitoring

Monitor serum and urinary calcium periodically, especially in renal impairment or where high doses are used long term.

Counselling the patient

• Take other medicines such as thyroid tablets or certain antibiotics at a different time from this supplement.
• Report nausea, constipation, excessive thirst or passing large amounts of urine, which can indicate high calcium.
• Do not take additional calcium or vitamin D products without advice.

Evidence & guidelines

Combined calcium and vitamin D supplementation is supported by NICE guidance for correcting deficiency and as an adjunct in osteoporosis management.