Paricalcitol (par-a-KAL-si-tole)

Treats hyperparathyroidism caused by kidney disease.

Brand Name(s):

Zemplar

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid Filled Capsule

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Your dose may need to be changed several times in order to find out what works best for you. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about diet and vitamin and mineral supplements.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using cholestyramine (Questran®), digoxin (Lanoxin®), or nefazodone. Tell your doctor if you are using a medicine to treat an infection such as clarithromycin, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, telithromycin, voriconazole, Crixivan®, or Reyataz®.
• Do not use vitamin D, phosphate or calcium supplements, or antacids containing aluminum without asking your doctor.
• Your doctor may tell you to limit your dietary intake of phosphate. Foods that are high in phosphate include beans, beer, chocolate, cheese, cola soft drinks, ice cream, milk, nuts, peas, whole grain products, and yogurt.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood or urine at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

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

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Eye redness, or sensitivity to light.
• Severe muscle pain, bone pain, or constipation.
• Sudden and severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever.
• Sudden weight loss or loss of appetite.
• Uneven heartbeat.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dryness or metallic taste in your mouth.
• Light headed, dizzy or loss of balance.
• Unusual weakness or sleepiness.