Chemical formula: C₂₈H₄₄O Molecular mass: 396.648 g/mol PubChem compound: 5280793
Ergocalciferol (vitamin D) is a fat soluble vitamin. In conjunction with parathyroid hormone and calcitonin, it regulates calcium haemostasis. Ergocalciferol metabolites promote active absorption of calcium and phosphorous by the small intestine, increase rate of excretion and resorption of minerals in bone and promote resorption of minerals in bone and promote resorption of phosphate by renal tubules.
Ergocalciferol deficiency leads to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Ergocalciferol reverses symptoms of nutritional rickets or osteomalacia unless permanent deformities have occurred.
Stored chiefly in the liver, ergocalciferol is also found in fat, muscle, skin and bones. In plasma, it is bound to alpha globulins and albumin.
There is a lag of 10 to 24 hours between administration of ergocalciferol and initiation of its action in the body. Maximal hypercalcaemic effects occur about 4 weeks after daily administration of a fixed dose and the duration of action can be ≥2 months. Ergocalciferol is hydroxylated in the liver and further metabolism occurs in the kidney.
The primary route of excretion of Ergocalciferol is in the bile. Additionally, some is excreted in the urine and faeces. There is also enterohepatic re-cycling.
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