1. Petroleum refinery process in which large heavy oil molecules are broken down into smaller ones. If conducted only with the application of heat, it is called thermal cracking. If a catalyst is also used, it is called catalytic cracking. If hydrogen is used in addition to heat and catalysts, it is called hydrocracking. 2. Deciphering of a code or encrypted data.
Vitamin D3 is the form of vitamin D called cholecalciferol. Cholecalciferol is the most widely known of the vitamin D series and is a fat soluble vitamin that is stored to some degree in the body. It is used as a dietary supplement and for the treatment and prevention of vitamin D deficiency.
Ergocalciferol is vitamin D2. Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and for the functioning of calcium in the body. Ergocalciferol is used to treat hypoparathyroidism (decreased functioning of the parathyroid glands). Ergocalciferol is also used to treat rickets (softening of the bones caused by vitamin D deficiency) or low levels of phosphate in the blood (hypophosphatemia). Ergocalciferol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.