Calcitriol (kal-si-TRYE-ole)

Treats low blood calcium in kidney dialysis patients and other patients. Calcitriol is a form of vitamin D.

Brand Name(s):

Calcijex

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
• An IV injection is medicine that is put directly into your body through one of your veins.
• This medicine should be given by a person trained to give IV medicine, such as a nurse. Sometimes you, a family member, or friend can be taught to give your medicine.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine needs to be given on a regular schedule. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then return to your normal schedule.
• If you miss more than one dose, call your doctor for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you have your treatments at home, you should be given a special container for the used needles. Keep it where children or pets cannot reach it.
• Keep your medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• You should not use other forms of vitamin D while taking calcitriol.
• You should not use antacids that contain magnesium (such as Mylanta® or Maalox®) without first checking with your doctor.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any other medical problems, check with your doctor before taking calcitriol.
• If you are on dialysis, you may need to follow a special diet and take phosphate-binding medicine. Talk to your doctor about this.
• If you are NOT on dialysis and taking calcitriol, be sure to drink plenty of liquids.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Nausea and vomiting, long-lasting headache, constipation, sleepiness and weakness (early signs of high blood calcium)
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe stomach pain
• Bone pain
• Cloudy or foaming urine