What is calcitriol?
Calcitriol is vitamin D3. Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and for the functioning of calcium in the body.
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 (hypocalcemia) and metabolic bone disease in people who are 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 may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about calcitriol?
You should not use this medication 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.
Drink plenty of fluids unless your doctor has told you to restrict your fluid intake.
Call your doctor if you have ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, or if you are sweating more than usual. You can easily become dehydrated while taking this medication, which can lead to a serious electrolyte imbalance.
Do not take other vitamin or mineral supplements unless your doctor has told you to.
Avoid using antacids without your doctor's advice. Use only the type of antacid your doctor recommends. Some antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb calcitriol.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
Calcitriol is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include a special diet. Follow your diet and medication routines very closely. You should become very familiar with the list of foods you must eat or avoid to help control your condition.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking calcitriol?
You should not use this medication 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.
To make sure you can safely take calcitriol, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions.
FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Calcitriol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.