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General Medication Fact Sheet for Calcitriol
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Calcitriol |
| Brand Name Versions | Rocaltrol, Calcijex |
| Purpose | Treatment of hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) and metabolic bone diseases in patients with chronic kidney disease or hypoparathyroidism |
| Mechanism of Action | Active form of vitamin D that regulates calcium and phosphate absorption in the intestines and promotes bone remodeling |
| Dosage Forms | Oral capsules, oral solution, intravenous solution |
| Available Strengths | 0.25 mcg, 0.5 mcg (capsules); 1 mcg/mL (oral solution); 1 mcg/mL, 2 mcg/mL (IV solution) |
| Dosage Frequency | Typically once daily, but may vary depending on the condition being treated and the patient’s response |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, metallic taste |
| Serious Side Effects | Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels), kidney problems, allergic reactions |
| Drug Interactions | Thiazide diuretics, magnesium-containing antacids, digoxin, other vitamin D supplements |
| Important Notes | Regular monitoring of calcium levels is important; report any symptoms of hypercalcemia (weakness, headache, confusion) to your doctor |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Ergocalciferol, Doxercalciferol, Paricalcitol |
Calcitriol Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2) | Precursor to active vitamin D; converted in the body to calcitriol | Requires kidney and liver activation. |
| Doxercalciferol (Hectorol) | Vitamin D2 analog; converted in the liver to active vitamin D | Used in patients with chronic kidney disease. |
| Paricalcitol (Zemplar) | Selective vitamin D receptor activator | Used in patients with chronic kidney disease. |
Calcitriol Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Nausea | Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels) |
| Vomiting | Kidney problems |
| Constipation | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling) |
| Dry mouth | Muscle weakness |
| Metallic taste | Bone pain |
Calcitriol Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hypocalcemia in chronic kidney disease | 0.25 mcg | 0.5 mcg daily | Monitor calcium levels closely. |
| Hypoparathyroidism | 0.25 mcg | 0.5-2 mcg daily | Adjust dose based on calcium levels. |
| Renal Osteodystrophy | 0.25 mcg | 0.5 mcg daily | Monitor calcium and PTH levels. |
Calcitriol Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $5 – $10 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $45 – $85 |
| From Canada | $24.59 |
