Rocaltrol

Rocaltrol is a drug used in the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism, secondary hypoparathyroidism, low blood calcium/ hypocalcemia and resultant metabolic bone disease in patients with moderate to severe chronic renal failure.

Calcitriol is available as a capsule containing calcitriol 0.25 micrograms and an injection solution containing calcitriol 1 micrograms in 1 milliliter.

Instructions

You should read the product information leaflet before using this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

The capsule should be taken by mouth as instructed by your doctor. Do not crush or chew the drug because it may diminish its effects. This medication should be taken with a full glass of water unless your doctor tells you otherwise. You should swallow the drug whole.

Your dosage is based on your medical condition and the way you will respond to treatment. Take this drug regularly to experience the most benefits.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. Continue to use it as prescribed by your doctor or as stated on the package label.

Interactions

Calcitriol may interact with medications such as:

• Other vitamin D products (e.g., ergocalciferol)
• Cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin, digitalis)
• Corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, prednisone)
• Magnesium-containing medications (e.g., antacids, milk of magnesia)
• Phosphate binders
• Water pills/ diuretics (e.g., thiazide diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide)
• Vitamins/nutritional supplements (especially calcium and vitamin D)
• Drugs that can speed up the removal of calcitriol from your body (e.g., ketoconazole, phenobarbital, phenytoin)

Side Effects

There are no side effects known aside from a possible allergic reaction in people who have previous or unknown hypersensitivity to the drug.

Watch out for signs of allergic reactions such as:

• Rash
• Itching
• Swelling

Warnings

• Allergy to calcitriol
• High calcium levels
• Heart disease (e.g., irregular heartbeat, coronary artery disease)
• Kidney disease
• Kidney stones
• Pregnancy or lactation