What is Stexerol and how does it work?
Stexerol-D3 is a prescription-only medication containing colecalciferol (vitamin D3). It is a vitamin supplement used to correct and maintain vitamin D levels. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for bone health. Low vitamin D can lead to weak bones, and Stexerol-D3 provides vitamin D3 to address this deficiency.
Therapeutic uses of Stexerol-D3
Stexerol-D3 is used to manage vitamin D levels. Its applications include:
- Treating vitamin D deficiency: High doses are used to quickly raise vitamin D levels in patients with a diagnosed deficiency. Blood tests guide appropriate use.
- Preventing vitamin D deficiency: Appropriate maintenance doses help sustain optimal vitamin D levels, especially for those with limited sun exposure.
- Supporting osteoporosis treatment: When combined with other treatments, Stexerol-D3 helps manage osteoporosis in patients with vitamin D deficiency by improving calcium absorption for bone mineralization.
Administration
Stexerol-D3 is determined by a healthcare professional and is tailored to individual needs. Tablets can be swallowed whole or crushed and are best taken with food.
Comparison of Stexerol-D3 strengths
Stexerol-D3 is available in different strengths for treatment and maintenance.
| Feature | Stexerol-D3 1,000 IU Film-coated Tablets | Stexerol-D3 25,000 IU Film-coated Tablets |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Prevention and maintenance after treating deficiency | Initial treatment for severe vitamin D deficiency |
| Form | Orange, oval film-coated tablets | Orange, capsule-shaped film-coated tablets |
| Legal Category | Prescription Only Medicine (POM) | Prescription Only Medicine (POM) |
| Special Considerations | Lower strength for long-term management | Higher strength for short-term, intensive treatment |
Important precautions and side effects
Stexerol-D3, like other medications, can have side effects and contraindications. It is crucial to discuss your medical history and current medications with your doctor before use.
Common side effects and precautions: Side effects can include those related to high calcium levels (hypercalcaemia), such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, increased urination, itching, or rash.
Contraindications: Avoid Stexerol-D3 if you have allergies to its ingredients, high blood levels of vitamin D (hypervitaminosis D) or calcium (hypercalcaemia), high calcium in urine (hypercalciuria), kidney stones, or severe kidney problems.
Drug interactions: Certain medications for epilepsy, inflammation (glucocorticoids), and high cholesterol can affect Stexerol-D3. Vitamin D can also interact with other drugs like cardiac glycosides.
What to do in case of an overdose
An overdose of Stexerol-D3 can cause serious health issues due to hypercalcaemia. Symptoms might include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, thirst, weakness, and dizziness. If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical help.
Conclusion
Stexerol-D3, containing colecalciferol (vitamin D3), is a prescription medication used to treat and prevent vitamin D deficiency and support osteoporosis treatment. It is essential for calcium and phosphorus regulation and maintaining bone health. As a prescription-only medicine, its use should always be supervised by a healthcare professional to ensure appropriate treatment and monitor for potential side effects.
