Real Time Pharmacology

Vitamin D has multiple biological roles in our body. It increases calcium, magnesium and phosphate absorption .  It is very important to correct the low Vitamin D levels by supplementation.  The two major forms  most commonly available are vitamin D 2  (ergocalciferol), and vitamin D 3  (cholecalciferol). Uses:  Vitamin D deficiency; Prophylaxis, Falls Vitamin D deficiency dose: 50,000 international units orally once weekly for 8 weeks (or) 6000 international units once daily for 8 weeks to achieve a 25-hydroxyvitamin D level greater than 30 nanograms/mL; follow with maintenance dose of 1500 to 2000 international units/day (guideline dosage) Cost: $5 to $14 per month  Common Side effects: Gastrointestinal:  Constipation, Loss of appetite, Nausea Serious side effect:  Endocrine metabolic:  Hypervitaminosis D Renal Impairment Vitamin D undergoes activation in renal tissue; higher doses may be required in patients...

A 91- year old patient. Admitted to the hospital from the ED. Patient was seen for altered mental status. Labs, CT of brain head, CXR XR of left Tib/Fib were performed. Presumed meningioma in the left middle cranial fossa was noted. Sodium was critically low at 114. Nephrologist was consulted and hyponatremia is of unknown etiology. Patient also has uncontroled hypertension. Comorbidities: Coronary artery disease, Diabetes, Dementia, hypothyroidism, hyperlipedemia, neuropathy. Patient will need physicain oversight for hyponatremia, normal saline routinely, and medication management for hypertension. Rx: Sodium Chloride USP 1.0 gram Use  1. Hyponatremia 2. Preparation of normal isotonic solution of sodium chloride 3. As an electrolyte replenisher for the prevention of heat cramps, due to excessive  perspiration 4. any alternate use as directed by a physician Each tablet contains: sodium 394mg Hyponatremia  is a common electrolyte disorder encountered i...