How should I take calcitriol?
Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger
amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from
this medication.
Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table
spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Drink plenty of fluids unless your doctor has told you to restrict your fluid intake.
Call your doctor if you have ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, or if you are sweating
more than usual. Becoming dehydrated while taking calcitriol can lead to an electrolyte
imbalance.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on
a regular basis. You may need blood tests as often as twice a week when you first start taking
calcitriol. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
Calcitriol is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include a special
diet. It is very important to follow the diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutrition
counselor. You should become very familiar with the list of foods you must eat or avoid to help
control your condition.
If you need to be on bed-rest or have any type of surgery, your dose or testing needs
may change. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture, light, and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose,
wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra
medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this
medicine.
Overdose symptoms may include increased thirst or urination, uneven heart rate,
weakness, behavior changes, bone pain, nausea, weight loss, decreased appetite, constipation, or
a metallic taste in the mouth.
What should I avoid while taking calcitriol?
Do not take other vitamin or mineral supplements unless your doctor has told you to.
Avoid using antacids without your doctor's advice. Use only the specific type of antacid
your doctor recommends. Antacids contain different minerals and some types can cause serious
side effects if you take them together with calcitriol.
What are the possible side effects of calcitriol?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these
signs of an allergic
reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop taking calcitriol and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious
side effects:
-
increased thirst,
-
urinating more than usual;
-
pain in your lower back;
-
fast, slow, or uneven heart rate;
-
weakness, drowsiness, changes in behavior;
-
bone pain, muscle weakness, loss of height;
-
nausea, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss;
-
slow growth (in a child taking calcitriol); or
-
dry mouth or a metallic taste.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell
your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.
Print
Email
Media Gallery
Drug Info Tools
Medicare's drug plans are subsidized by the US federal government and offered through insurers.
