Calcitriol

Generic name: calcitriol
Brand names: Calcijex, Rocaltrol
Drug class: Vitamins

Dosage form: injectable solution/capsule/liquid
Root of administration: injection/oral
Dose:

• injectable solution (1 mcg/mL)
• oral capsule (0.25 mcg; 0.5 mcg)
• oral liquid (1 mcg/mL)

Mechanism of action: Calcitriol is a form of vitamin D3. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium from the stomach.
Drug usage cases:Calcitriol is used to treat hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands) and metabolic bone disease in people who have chronic kidney failure and are not receiving dialysis. Calcitriol is also used to treat calcium deficiency in people with hypoparathyroidism (underactive parathyroid glands) caused by surgery, disease, or other conditions. Calcitriol is also used to treat calcium deficiency (hypocalcemia) and metabolic bone disease in people who are receiving dialysis. Calcitriol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Drug contraindications: You should not use calcitriol if:

• you have high levels of calcium or vitamin D in your blood; or
• you have had an allergic reaction to calcitriol or other forms of vitamin D.

Side effects: Calcitriol may cause serious side effects. Stop using calcitriol and call your doctor at once if you have:

• dehydration symptoms–feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and dry skin;
• high calcium levels–nausea, vomiting, constipation, increased thirst or urination, muscle weakness, bone pain, confusion, lack of energy, or tired feeling; or
• low calcium level–muscle spasms or contractions, numbness or tingly feeling (around your mouth, or in your fingers and toes).

Warnings: You should not use calcitriol if you have high levels of calcium or vitamin D in your blood, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to calcitriol or other forms of vitamin D.
Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not breastfeed while using calcitriol.