Common Questions about Vitamin D2

How do I know if my vitamin D levels are low?

Some of the symptoms of low vitamin D levels include fatigue, sleep problems, depression, loss of appetite, muscle weakness, and bone pain. If you suspect a deficiency of vitamin D, make an appointment to see your provider. They can measure blood levels of vitamin D and prescribe supplementation if needed.

What is the difference between vitamin D2 and vitamin D3?

Vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 are two forms of vitamin D. Vitamin D2 (also called ergocalciferol) is present in dietary sources and oral supplements. Vitamin D3 (also called cholecalciferol) is made in the skin with sun exposure and obtained from food sources and oral supplements. Vitamin D2 is taken by mouth, usually once daily. Vitamin D3 can be prescribed at higher doses to be taken once weekly.

Can I take vitamin D2 instead of vitamin D3?

No, do not take one form of vitamin D instead of the other. Certain forms are taken once daily, and others are taken once weekly. Make sure you know what your doctor has prescribed and take it at the recommended dose only.

What are the dietary sources of vitamin D?

Food sources that contain vitamin D include oily or fatty fish (tuna, mackerel, salmon, sardines), rainbow trout, beef liver, mushrooms, egg yolks, fortified foods (milk, yogurt, margarine, cereal, juice, soybean oil). You can also get vitamin D from dietary supplements.

How much vitamin D should you take every day?

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin D (normal doses needed by healthy individuals to maintain bone health and normal calcium metabolism) is as follows:

• Children up to 1 year of age: 400 IU daily
• Children and adults 1-70 years of age: 600 IU daily
• Adults 71 years of age or older: 800 IU daily
• Pregnant or nursing a baby with breast milk: 600 IU daily

The tolerable upper intake level (maximum intake that will not cause harmful health effects) is 4,000 IU daily for adults and children over the age of 9 years.

What is the price of vitamin D2 without insurance?

Without insurance, vitamin D2 can be as high as $34.69, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $7.09 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.

What is the price of vitamin D2 with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on vitamin D2—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for vitamin D2. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.