Used at one time as a name for ercalciol (ergocalciferol or vitamin D2), made by the ultraviolet irradiation of ergosterol. Also used as a general term to include both vitamers of vitamin D (vitamins D2 and D3).
Synonym for vitamin D.
One of the D vitamins, a chemical found in milk and fish liver oils and used to prevent and treat rickets, osteomalacia, and other disorders of calcium metabolism; also called vitamin D2; ergocalciferol.
A fat-soluble, crystalline unsaturated alcohol that occurs naturally in fish liver oils, spinach, broccoli, soybeans, and other dried beans. Calciferol helps the body use calcium and is used in the treatment of osteomalacia, osteoporosis, rickets, and hypocalcemic disorders.
A synthetic vitamin D. It has the most vitamin D activity of those substances derived from ergosterol. It is used for prophylaxis and treatment of vitamin D deficiency, rickets, and hypocalcemic tetany.
Vitamin D2, which was previously referred to by the former name, is now predominantly recognized as ergocalciferol. This designation has become more widely used to denote this particular form of vitamin D. Ergocalciferol plays a crucial role in various physiological processes and is an essential nutrient for maintaining overall health and wellbeing.
Vitamin D2 is formed when ultraviolet light interacts with ergosterol. On the other hand, Vitamin D3 is naturally found in fish liver oils, milk, and animal fats, often alongside vitamin A. It is also produced in the skin when sunlight or ultraviolet light acts upon 7-dehydrocholesterol. Vitamin D, which encompasses both D2 and D3, functions by elevating the levels of phosphorus and calcium in the bloodstream. It aids in their absorption from the digestive tract and assists the bones in utilizing these compounds. A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to conditions like rickets and osteomalacia, while excessive intake can result in lethargy, the removal of calcium from the bones, and the formation of kidney stones.