PTCE Top 200 · #68

Cholecalciferol

OTC (Vitamin D3)

Cholecalciferol is the generic name for the brand-name drug OTC (Vitamin D3). It is a vitamin d3 used to treat vitamin D deficiency. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Cholecalciferol ranks #68 and is one of the most frequently tested vitamins/minerals/supplements medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.

Generic name	Cholecalciferol
Brand name(s)	OTC (Vitamin D3)
Drug class	Vitamin D3
Class group	Vitamins/Minerals/Supplements
Common use	vitamin D deficiency
DEA schedule	Unscheduled
Availability	Over-the-counter (OTC)

What is Cholecalciferol used for?

• Vitamin D deficiency: supplementation and treatment.

What drug class is Cholecalciferol?

Cholecalciferol is a Vitamin D3 in the Vitamins/Minerals/Supplements group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.

Common side effects of Cholecalciferol

arrow_rightHypercalcemia symptoms (nausea, vomiting)
arrow_rightConstipation
arrow_rightWeakness/fatigue

Major interactions

arrow_rightThiazide diuretics may ↑ hypercalcemia risk
arrow_rightDigoxin + hypercalcemia ↑ arrhythmia risk
arrow_rightOrlistat, cholestyramine may ↓ vitamin D absorption
arrow_rightEnzyme-inducing anticonvulsants may ↓ vitamin D effect

Is Cholecalciferol a controlled substance?

No. Cholecalciferol is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

How to remember Cholecalciferol (PTCE mnemonic)

D3 = 'D-THREE for ME' (animal-source) — cholecalciferol is more potent than D2. Fat-soluble, take with food; ↑Ca absorption; toxicity = hypercalcemia.

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PTCE exam tip

Cholecalciferol is vitamin D3, the common OTC form — contrast with prescription ergocalciferol (vitamin D2).