5,6-trans-Vitamin D2 is an odorless white crystalline or powder form of vitamin D. It is soluble in alcohol, chloroform, ether, and fatty oils, but degrades with exposure to air, light, and acidic conditions. Its biological role involves promoting calcium and phosphate absorption in the small intestine, enhancing their release from bones, and reducing their renal excretion.
- Used as a dietary supplement and food additive.
- Helps prevent milk fever in cows and combats atrophic rhinitis in pigs.
- Assists in fracture repair for felines and canines.
- Addresses hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia, rickets, osteomalacia, and renal osteodystrophy.
- Supports osteoporosis treatment when combined with calcium.