Typical dose
400-2000 IU (10-50 mcg) daily for general supple...
Oral
Oral safety: very low
About this supplement
Cholecalciferol, commonly known as vitamin D3, is a secosteroid hormone and the primary form of vitamin D produced in the skin upon exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation from sunlight. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that functions as a prohormone, requiring two hydroxylations (in the liver and kidneys) to become the biologically active form, calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol). Vitamin D3 plays a crucial role in calcium and phosphate homeostasis, bone mineralization, immune system modulation, cell growth regulation, and neuromuscular function. It is more effective at raising and maintaining serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels than vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol).
How much to take
- Typical amount
- 400-2000 IU (10-50 mcg) daily for general supplementation; higher doses (e.g., 5000-50,000 IU) may be used for deficiency correction under medical supervision.
- Suggested range
- 400-4000 IU daily (10-100 mcg daily)
Potential benefits
Benefits linked to this supplement form:
Things to watch for
Possible side effects linked to this form:
Health goals
Needs and goals this form may help with:
Other forms of Vitamin D
Compare absorption and active amounts with sibling forms:
Calcifediol (25-hydroxyvitamin D3)
Used to rapidly correct vitamin D deficiency; monitor serum calcium and 25(OH)D...
Vitamin D (cholecalciferol)
Vitamin D (ergocalciferol)
Vitamin D (mixed)
Vitamin D (unspecified)
Vitamin D2
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 in oil (softgel/liquid)
Take with a meal containing fat for optimal absorption. Store in a cool, dark pl...
Vitamin D3 powder (often on carrier)
Essential for bone health and calcium absorption. Often supplemented in regions...
Technical details â–¼
Chemical ID (CAS)
67-97-0
Formula
C27H44O
Physical properties
White, crystalline, odorless powder. Insoluble in water; soluble in fats, oils, ethanol, acetone, and ether. Sensitive to light, oxygen, and acids. Melting point: 84-85°C.
How it’s made
Natural: Synthesized in skin from 7-dehydrocholesterol via UVB radiation. Commercial: Produced via UV irradiation of 7-dehydrocholesterol derived from lanolin (sheep's wool fat) or lichen (vegan source). Can also be synthesized chemically.