Biochem/physiol Actions

Vitamin D acts through a receptor that is a member of the ligand-dependent transcription factor superfamily. Modulates the proliferation and differentiation of both normal and cancer cells. Has antiproliferative and antimetastatic effects on breast, colon, and prostate cancer cells. Activated vitamin D receptors in intestine and bone maintain calcium absorbance and homeostasis.

Deficiency of vitamin D is often observed in chronic kidney disease.

General description

Cholecalciferol is sourced either through the diet or exposing skin to ultraviolet rays. Oral administration of vitamin D₃ is readily absorbed and is stored in adipose tissue.

Cholecalciferol acts as a hormone precursor since it requires two stages of metabolism: first to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol; then to 1A, 25-dihydroxycholecalciferol. One unit (U.S.P. or international) is defined as the activity of 0.025 μg of vitamin D3 contained in the USP vitamin D reference standard.

Packaging

1, 5 g in glass bottle

Storage and Stability

Cholecalciferol C9756 is packaged under argon gas. If it is stored unopened at 2-8°C and protected from light, this product should be stable for a minimum of three years. Unused portions should be stored under nitrogen or argon gas. Deterioration is negligible after storage of one year in amber-evaculated ampules at refrigerator temperatures. It is oxidized and inactivated by moist air within a few days.