Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Calcifediol (Vitamin D)

Calcifediol is an active form of vitamin D that binds to the vitamin D receptor to regulate calcium and phosphate homeostasis and modulate immune function.

Calcifediol is an active form of vitamin D that binds to the vitamin D receptor to regulate calcium and phosphate homeostasis and modulate immune function. Used for Vitamin D deficiency, Hypocalcemia, Secondary hyperparathyroidism.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Calcifediol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3) is the most biologically active metabolite of vitamin D. It acts as a ligand for the vitamin D receptor (VDR), a nuclear receptor that regulates gene expression involved in calcium absorption, bone metabolism, and immune cell differentiation. This mechanism makes it useful for treating vitamin D deficiency, hypocalcemia, and certain bone and mineral disorders.

Approved indications

• Vitamin D deficiency
• Hypocalcemia
• Secondary hyperparathyroidism
• Bone and mineral disorders

Common side effects

• Hypercalcemia
• Hyperphosphatemia
• Nausea
• Headache

Key clinical trials

• Vitamin D Status in Young Medical Residents
• Effect of Vitamin D in Diets of Preterm Infants (NA)
• Effect of Vitamin D Deficiency on the Frequency and Severity of Spinal Anesthesia-Induced Hypotension in Pregnant Women Undergoing Cesarean Section
• Exercise Training and Vitamin D Metabolism (NA)
• Vitamin D and Immune Mechanisms of Hypertension in Type 2 Diabetics
• Oral Vitamin D3 Effect on Inflammatory Biomarkers in Ulcerative Colitis Patients (NA)
• Cholecalciferol and Calcifediol Are Both Useful to Improve Vitamin D Serum Levels (NA)
• Activated Vitamin D for the Prevention and Treatment of Acute Kidney Injury (PHASE2)

Primary sources

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