• Basic Info
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• Clinical Info

What is this medicine?

CALCITRIOL (kal si TRYE ole) is a man made form of vitamin D. It helps your body keep the proper levels of calcium and phosphorus and maintain healthy bones and teeth.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

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
• parathyroid disease
• receiving dialysis treatment
• an unusual or allergic reaction to calcitriol, vitamin D, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 1 year old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• vitamin D

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• calcium supplements
• cholestyramine
• corticosteroids
• digoxin
• ketoconazole
• magnesium supplements
• phenobarbital
• phenytoin
• phosphate-binding agents
• some antacids
• thiazide diuretics

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You will need to have important lab work done while you are taking this medicine.

You will need to be on a special diet while you are taking this medicine. Do not take any non-prescription medicines that have vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium, or calcium including antacids, unless directed by your doctor. Limit the amount of calcium you get each day as directed. The extra supplements can cause side effects.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• bone pain
• increased thirst
• increased urination (especially at night)
• irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• seizures
• unexpected weight loss
• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• constipation
• dry mouth
• headache
• loss of appetite
• metallic taste
• stomach upset

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Last Updated: March 25, 2009