Europe — EMA
Hidroferol (Calcifediol)
Learn about Hidroferol calcifediol, an OTC oral vitamin D supplement for deficiency, its uses, safety, and FAQs.
Request sourcing
What is Calcifediol?
Hidroferol is an oral vitamin D supplement containing calcifediol, a 25‑hydroxyvitamin D3 metabolite, marketed in the European Union as an over‑the‑counter product. It is supplied in tablet form (strength not specified) and is intended to raise circulating vitamin D levels. The preparation is classified as a vitamin D analog and is used to support calcium metabolism and bone health for individuals with limited sun exposure or dietary intake.
What is Calcifediol used for?
Hidroferol is indicated for the correction of low vitamin D status and for the prevention of bone‑related disorders associated with deficiency.
- Treatment of documented vitamin D deficiency in adults. - Prevention of osteomalacia in individuals at risk. - Support of bone health to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. - Adjunct therapy in chronic kidney disease where conversion to active vitamin D is impaired. - Management of malabsorption syndromes that limit dietary vitamin D absorption.
What are the side effects of Calcifediol?
Adverse reactions to Hidroferol are generally dose‑related and may affect calcium balance or cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms.
Common: - Nausea or upset stomach. - Constipation or mild diarrhea. - Headache. - Transient fatigue. - Mild hypercalcemia (asymptomatic).
Serious: - Significant hypercalcemia with symptoms such as polyuria, polydipsia, or cardiac arrhythmia. - Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) due to calcium precipitation. - Severe allergic reactions, including rash, pruritus, or angioedema. - Hypervitaminosis D leading to calcification of soft tissues.
What precautions apply to Calcifediol?
Before using Hidroferol, consider the following safety points.
- Assess baseline serum calcium and 25‑hydroxyvitamin D levels to avoid excess supplementation. - Use caution in patients with a history of hypercalcemia, renal stones, or granulomatous diseases. - Monitor renal function periodically, especially in individuals with chronic kidney disease. - Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before initiating therapy. - Do not exceed the recommended daily intake without medical supervision, as chronic excess can lead to toxicity. - Store the product away from moisture and keep out of reach of children.
What does Calcifediol interact with?
Hidroferol may alter the effectiveness or safety of certain medications.
Avoid: - Thiazide diuretics, which can increase the risk of hypercalcemia. - Calcium supplements taken in high doses, potentially leading to excess calcium levels. - Vitamin A excess, which may potentiate vitamin D toxicity.
Use with caution: - Anticonvulsants such as phenobarbital or phenytoin that accelerate vitamin D metabolism. - Corticosteroids, which can reduce vitamin D activation. - Bisphosphonates, where concurrent high vitamin D may affect calcium homeostasis. - Certain cholesterol‑lowering agents (e.g., cholestyramine) that may impair absorption of fat‑soluble vitamins.
