Disclaimer to the Online Edition
This Manual has been designed for use in the NICU at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), London, Ontario, Canada, and represents clinical practice at this institution. The information contained within the Manual may not be applicable to other centres. If users of this Manual are not familiar with a drug, it is recommended that the official monograph be consulted before it is prescribed and administered. Any user of this information is advised that the contributors, Editor and LHSC are not responsible for any errors or omissions, and / or any consequences arising from the use of the information in this Manual.
cholecalciferol (Vitamin D)
Indication
- Vitamin supplementation for the prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency for term breastfed infants
Dosage Guidelines
- Start when 50% enteral feeds have been reached in infants greater than 2 kg feeding plain breast milk
- 400 units ORAL daily
Administration
- ORAL: administer with feeds to avoid GI irritation
Adverse Effects
- Well tolerated at recommended doses
Comments
- Doses in excess of 1,000 units daily may cause chronic toxicity
- Anticonvulsants (phenytoin, PHENobarbital) may reduce the effects of vitamin D
- Breast milk does not provide the daily recommended intake of vitamin D for term infants
- Convert to cholecalciferol drops on discharge (1 drop = 400 units)
Supplied As
- 400 units/mL oral solution
References
LexiComp Sick Kids, LexiComp Pediatric and Neonatal, Neofax