Calcitriol capsules
To return to the main entry click here.
What are calcitriol capsules?
CALCITRIOL (Rocaltrol®) is a man-made form of vitamin D. Vitamin D is necessary to maintain the right amount of calcium in the body for strong bones and teeth. Calcitriol helps your body keep the proper levels of calcium and phosphorus and maintain healthy bones. Generic calcitriol capsules are available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:
• kidney disease
• too much calcium or vitamin D in the blood
• parathyroid disease
• other chronic illness
• an unusual or allergic reaction to vitamin D, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take calcitriol capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules with a drink of water. Take exactly as directed. Do not exceed the prescribed dose because calcitriol is stored in the body.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What drug(s) may interact with calcitriol?
• cholestyramine
• colestipol
• digoxin
• ketoconazole
• orlistat
• mineral oil
• seizure (convulsion) or epilepsy medicine
• water pills
Talk to your prescriber or other health care professional before taking any of these medicines:
• antacids
• calcium supplements
• magnesium supplements
• vitamin D
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking calcitriol?
Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You may need a special diet and to take calcium supplements.
Do not take any non-prescription medicines that contain vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium, or calcium including antacids while taking calcitriol, unless your prescriber or health care professional says you can. The extra calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, or vitamin D can lead to side effects. Do not take more calcium, magnesium, or vitamin D than your prescriber or health care professional recommends.
What side effects may I notice from taking calcitriol?
The recommended daily allowance of calcitriol does not usually cause any side effects. High doses for long periods of time may cause serious side effects
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Early side effect of too much calcitriol:
• bone pain
• constipation
• dry mouth
• headache
• metallic taste
• nausea, vomiting
• unusual tiredness, or weakness
Late side effects of too much calcitriol:
• increased thirst
• increase in the need to pass urine (especially at night)
• irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure
• loss of appetite
• seizures (convulsions)
• stomach pain
• weight loss
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature between 15° and 30°C (59° and 86°F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
