3. Dihydrotachysterol

Dihydrotachysterol

  • Dihydrotachysterol is an oily liquid.
  • You will be given a dropper to measure out your dose with.
  • Make sure you understand how much to take and when to take it.
  • If you begin to feel sick, lose your appetite or feel weak and tired, it is important that you let your doctor know.
Type of medicine A type of vitamin D
Used for Low calcium levels in the blood due to problems with the parathyroid gland
Also called AT 10®
Available as Oral solution

Dihydrotachysterol is a form of vitamin D. Vitamin D is necessary for healthy bones and muscles because it helps absorb calcium from what you eat, and calcium is needed for healthy, strong bones.

Vitamin D is made in your body when your skin is exposed to sunlight. You can also get vitamin D from your diet by eating foods rich in vitamin D, such as oily fish (sardine, herring, salmon and tuna), liver, dairy products and eggs.

Dihydrotachysterol is used to treat low levels of calcium caused by problems with the parathyroid gland. The parathyroid gland helps to balance the amount of calcium in the blood. If it is not working properly there may be low blood levels of calcium which result in softening of the bones.

Before taking dihydrotachysterol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you are allergic to nuts (including peanuts) or soya.
  • If you have sarcoidosis (a disease resulting from inflammation).
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take dihydrotachysterol solution exactly as directed by your doctor. You will be told how much to take and which days to take it on.
  • Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored. You may need to have regular blood tests while you are taking this medicine to make sure the dose you are taking is correct for you.

This medicine is unlikely to cause any side-effects. If, however, you experience any worrying symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Important: if you experience the following symptoms while you are taking this medicine make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible to have your dose checked: loss of appetite, weakness, feeling sick, being sick, diarrhoea or constipation, weight loss, a need to urinate more often, sweating, headache, thirstiness or dizziness.

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
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Further reading & references

  • British National Formulary; 59th Edition (March 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Original Author: Helen Allen Current Version:
Last Checked: 21/10/2010 Document ID: 3635  Version: 22 © EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.

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