Cholecalciferol + Prednisolone

This combination consists of cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) and prednisolone, which is a corticosteroid. The interaction between these two medications is clinically significant and requires careful consideration. Prednisolone may reduce the effects of cholecalciferol[1]. Patients taking this combination may require increased monitoring and/or an adjustment in the dosing of cholecalciferol to safely use both medications together[1]. Corticosteroids like prednisolone reduce absorption of calcium and interfere with the activation and metabolism of vitamin D, increasing the risk of bone loss[7]. The combination of vitamin D and corticosteroids has shown potential benefits in certain clinical scenarios. For example, in COVID-19 patients, post-index use of vitamin D and corticosteroids demonstrated a beneficial effect on survival among hospitalized patients[6]. The combination therapy significantly reduced mortality risk by 98% on the logarithmic scale compared to corticosteroid use alone[6]. Corticosteroid-vitamin D analogue combinations are used to treat skin conditions like psoriasis of the body and scalp[9]. These medications work by combining the anti-inflammatory effects of corticosteroids with the skin cell-regulating properties of vitamin D analogues, helping to reduce redness, swelling, and the overproduction of skin cells[9]. Vitamin D supplements should be taken with food or a meal that has fat in it, as vitamin D is fat-soluble[10]. When using prednisolone, patients should be aware of potential side effects including increased appetite, abnormal fat deposits, acne, and thinning of scalp hair[8]. Patients taking this combination should be monitored for potential adverse effects, particularly related to bone health. The highest mortality risk in some studies was noted for hospitalized patients receiving corticosteroids in the absence of vitamin D supplementation[6], suggesting the importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels when using corticosteroids.

Other names

Vitamin D3 + Prednisolone