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Zemplar (Paricalcitol)
| Paricalcitol (Generic) Paricalcitol | ||||||
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Shipped from Canada | ||||||
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| Select product strength & quantity:
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General Medication Fact Sheet for Zemplar
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Zemplar |
| Generic Name | Paricalcitol |
| Purpose | Treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). |
| Mechanism of Action | Synthetic vitamin D analog that selectively activates the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in the parathyroid glands, suppressing parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion. |
| Dosage Forms | Injection, Oral Capsules |
| Available Strengths | Injection: 5 mcg/mL, Oral Capsules: 1 mcg, 2 mcg, 4 mcg |
| Dosage Frequency | Typically administered three times per week (injection) or daily (oral). Dosage is individualized based on PTH levels. |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, weakness, edema (swelling). |
| Serious Side Effects | Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels), hyperphosphatemia (high phosphate levels), allergic reactions, confusion. |
| Drug Interactions | Phosphate binders (e.g., sevelamer), vitamin D supplements, thiazide diuretics, digoxin. |
| Important Notes | Regular monitoring of calcium and phosphorus levels is essential. Inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking. |
| Storage | Store capsules at room temperature away from moisture and light. Refrigerate injection vials, do not freeze. |
| Missed Dose | If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Calcitriol, Doxercalciferol, Etelcalcetide |
Zemplar Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calcitriol (Rocaltrol) | Active form of vitamin D that binds to the VDR. | May have a higher risk of hypercalcemia compared to paricalcitol. |
| Doxercalciferol (Hectorol) | Vitamin D2 analog that is activated in the liver. | Another option for treating secondary hyperparathyroidism. |
| Etelcalcetide (Parsabiv) | Calcimimetic that lowers PTH levels by increasing the sensitivity of the calcium-sensing receptor on the parathyroid gland. | Administered intravenously after dialysis. |
Zemplar Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Nausea | Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels) |
| Vomiting | Hyperphosphatemia (high phosphate levels) |
| Diarrhea | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
| Constipation | Confusion |
| Weakness | Severe abdominal pain |
| Edema (swelling) | Seizures |
Zemplar Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Secondary Hyperparathyroidism (CKD, Stage 3 or 4) | Oral: 1 mcg daily or 2 mcg three times per week. Injection: 5 mcg three times per week. | Adjusted based on PTH levels; target PTH 150-300 pg/mL. | Oral: Take with or without food. Injection: Administered intravenously at the end of dialysis. |
| Secondary Hyperparathyroidism (CKD, Stage 5) | Oral: 1 mcg daily or 2 mcg three times per week. Injection: 5 mcg three times per week. | Adjusted based on PTH levels; target PTH 150-300 pg/mL. | Oral: Take with or without food. Injection: Administered intravenously at the end of dialysis. |
