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cholecalciferol (vitamin D3)

Medical University of South Carolina · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) is converted in the body to its active form, calcitriol, which regulates calcium and phosphate homeostasis and modulates immune function.

Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) is converted in the body to its active form, calcitriol, which regulates calcium and phosphate homeostasis and modulates immune function. Used for Vitamin D deficiency, Hypocalcemia, Hypoparathyroidism.

At a glance

Generic namecholecalciferol (vitamin D3)
Also known asvitamin D3, Vi-De 3® Monthly Dose
SponsorMedical University of South Carolina
Drug classVitamin D analog / Secosteroid
TargetVitamin D receptor (VDR)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaEndocrinology / Bone Health / Immunology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Vitamin D3 is a fat-soluble secosteroid that undergoes hydroxylation in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D and then in the kidneys to the active metabolite 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol). Calcitriol acts as a ligand for the vitamin D receptor (VDR), a nuclear receptor that regulates gene expression involved in calcium absorption, bone mineralization, and immune cell differentiation. Beyond skeletal health, vitamin D3 influences innate and adaptive immunity, cardiovascular function, and cellular proliferation.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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