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Calcitriol

This page contains brief details about the drug calcitriol, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Calcitriol was initially approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on October 21, 1998.

Mechanism of Action of Calcitriol

Calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphate levels, promoting bone health, and supporting kidney function. It enhances the absorption of calcium and phosphate from the intestines, maintaining optimal mineral levels in the blood. This balance is essential for strong bones, nerve function, and muscle activity. Calcitriol works in conjunction with parathyroid hormone to regulate calcium levels, preventing excessive calcium loss through urine and thereby protecting renal function. These combined effects make calcitriol vital for treating conditions like hypoparathyroidism, renal osteodystrophy, and vitamin D deficiency, ultimately supporting overall skeletal health and mineral balance.

AVAILABLE BRANDS

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Auxitrol 0.25mcg Capsule
ALNICHE LIFE SCIENCES PVT LTD ₹159.00
Calcit SG 0.25mg Capsule
ZYDUS CADILA ₹116.00
Calci 0.25mg Capsule
MEDGENIX PHARMAI(I)PVT LTD ₹132.00
Laretol 1mcg Injection
LA RENON HEALTHCARE PVT LTD ₹122.00
Temcal Capsule
TEMWARK LIFE SCIENCES PVT LTD ₹85.00

Uses of Calcitriol

Calcitriol is used to manage various conditions related to calcium and bone metabolism. It is prescribed to treat low blood calcium levels and is effective in conditions such as hypoparathyroidism. It supports bone health in chronic kidney disease, helps manage osteoporosis, treats rickets and osteomalacia, and is sometimes used in the treatment of psoriasis.

Calcitriol Drug administaration and Dosage available

Calcitriol can be administered through oral ingestion as capsules or liquid, and intravenous injection. The exact dosage and treatment duration will depend on instructions provided by a healthcare professional.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Calcitriol

Warnings

Calcitriol use include the risk of hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels), which can lead to serious health issues like kidney stones and cardiac abnormalities. Long-term use might affect bone health, and liver function could impact its metabolism. Allergic reactions like rash, swelling, or breathing difficulties are also possible. Excessive amounts of diet can impact the effects of this medication.

Precautions

Monitoring calcium levels is essential. Calcitriol should be used cautiously in patients with impaired kidney function and always vonsult the health care provuder for dosage adjustments. Individuals with lung conditions like sarcoidosis also require monitoring by the health care provider due to potential effects on calcium levels. Allergic reactions are possible, so seek medical attention if you experience rash, swelling, or breathing difficulties. Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should consult their doctors before using this medication.

Side Effects

Calcitriol can cause various side effects. Common side effects include increased thirst, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, muscle weakness, headache, and dry mouth. Serious side effects can include hypercalcemia (elevated blood calcium levels), allergic reactions with rash and difficulty breathing, kidney stone formation, irregular heartbeat, and bone pain.

Word Of Advice

Consult a healthcare professional before starting Calcitriol, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding mother. Take the amount your doctor recommends and follow the directions. Be careful if you are taking blood thinners, blood pressure medications, or cholesterol drugs. Serious reactions like allergies, tummy troubles, or low blood pressure are rare but possible. If allergic reactions they happen, stop using it and see a doctor. Keep checking in with your doctor, especially if you might get a little upset stomach, headache, diarrhea, or trouble sleeping. They will help you decide if you still need to take it. Before starting this medication, tell your doctor about your health history and other supplements.

Frequently Asked Question

Excessive calcitriol supplementation can lead to hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels), resulting in symptoms like kidney stones, gastrointestinal issues, and calcium deposits in soft tissues. Proper dosing and medical supervision are crucial.
Calcitriol and PTH work together to regulate calcium homeostasis. When blood calcium is low, PTH stimulates the production of calcitriol, which then helps increase calcium absorption from the intestines and prevents excessive calcium loss in the urine.
Yes, calcitriol is used in managing kidney disease, particularly renal osteodystrophy, which can occur due to kidney dysfunction. It helps maintain bone health and mineral balance in patients with impaired kidney function.
It’s important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, including calcitriol. Self-supplementation without medical guidance can lead to imbalances and adverse effects.
While calcitriol is synthesized in the body, its precursor, vitamin D3, is obtained from dietary sources like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products. Sunlight exposure also triggers the production of vitamin D in the skin.

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.