COMPOSITION:

Each 1ml oral drop contains 0.5mg Ergocalciferol (500 microgram) equivalent to 20000 IU.

Each one drop contains about 400 IU.

MECHANISM OF ACTION:

A deficiency of vitamin D leads to inadequate absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the intestinal tract and retention of these minerals in the kidney and then to faulty mineralization of bone structures. Therefore administration of Sterovit aids in the absorption of calcium from the intestinal tract and the reabsorption of phosphate in the renal tubule. Vit.D is a precursor of calcium regulating hormone (Calcitriol) which aids in improving calcium absorption and increasing calcium concentration in plasma.

INDICATIONS:

Sterovit contains vit.D which promotes the uptake of calcium in bones. Sterovit is indicated in the prevention and treatment of vit.D deficiencies.

DOSAGE:

After opening the aluminum cap, place the dropper on the bottle and use the dosage as it is mentioned below. After usage, close the bottle with the aluminum cap.

Sterovit should be taken definitely as shown:

• Prophylactic supplement:

Infants: 1 –2 drops daily (equivalent to 400–800 IU).

Adolescents: 1 –2 drops daily during winter.

Pregnant: 1 –2 drops daily during the last trimester of pregnancy.

Breast-feeding: 1 –2 drops daily during winter.

Elderly: 1–5 drops daily (equivalent to 400–2000 IU).

• Treatment of deficiency:

5 –10 drops daily for 3–6 months.

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

Hypersensitivity to one of the ingredients, hypercalcaemia, hypercalciuria, or renal failure.

SIDE EFFECTS:

Dosage of excessive amount of vit.D leads to increasing calcium concentration in plasma, which shows following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, constipation, anorexia, loss of weight, polyuria, and renal stones.

DRUG INTERACTIONS:

Sterovit effects may be reduced in patients receiving barbiturates or anticonvulsants.

PRECAUTIONS:

• It should not be given to renal failure patients, as it is not possible to metabolize ergocalciferol to its active metabolite (Calcitriol).

• Plasma calcium concentration should be checked especially when side effects occur such as nausea or vomiting.