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Posted On : 27 Sep 2026

Does Supplementation of Vitamin D3 (Calcitriol) In Addition of Calcium Help to Prevent Hypocalcaemia In preterm?

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Answer Discussion :

M

Moh Anwar

0

In preterm infants, calcitriol is not routinely added to calcium supplementation for the prevention of early hypocalcemia.

5 Days ago

S

Shan Singh

1

Yes do

5 Days ago

F

Fauzi Muhmood

0

No not always because conditions like cong hypoparathyrodisim can ass with severe form of hypocalcaemia which my need IV Calcium

5 Days ago

E

Erdem ADALIOGLU

0

yes it can be.

5 Days ago

D

Dilip S

0

definately

5 Days ago

Answer 1

Definitely, daily supplementation of Vit D3 to preterm babies does help in preventing symptomatic or subclinical hypocalcemia. As Vit D3 helps in absorbing Ca from the gut, serum levels of Ca can be maintained with oral Vit D3 supplementation. However, as you have mentioned, this should be supplemented with oral Ca.
Vit D3 supplementation is usually achieved by administering 1,25-Dihydroxycholecalciferol in a dose of 1 - 2 drops per kg body weight once daily when the baby has reached a full oral intake of EBM or preterm formula. However, monitoring of Alkaline phosphatase levels is recommended before and during treatment. Treatment with Vit D3 is optional if the Alkaline Phosphatase levels in preterm infants are less than 400 IU and should definitely be considered if more than 500 IU pre-treatment.

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