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calcitriol - injection, Calcijex

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GENERIC NAME: CALCITRIOL - INJECTION (kal-SIT-ree-ole)

BRAND NAME(S): Calcijex

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Calcitriol is a man-made active form of vitamin D (vitamin D3). Vitamin D is a vitamin stored in the body that is needed for building and keeping strong bones. Calcitriol is used to treat or prevent certain problems that can happen with long-term kidney dialysis, such as low levels of calcium or high levels of parathyroid hormone. Calcitriol is usually used along with a certain diet, supplements, and sometimes other medications.Most people get enough vitamin D from exposure to the sun and from fortified food products (e.g., dairy products, vitamins). Before regular vitamin D can be used by the body, it needs to be changed to the active form by the liver and kidneys. People with kidney disease cannot make enough of the active form of vitamin D. This medication works by affecting parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and increasing blood calcium levels.

HOW TO USE: Learn all preparation and usage instructions in the product package. If any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.This medication is given by injection into a vein, usually by a health care professional 3 times a week (every other day), or during dialysis, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your condition and response to therapy. Your doctor will do blood tests to find the best dose for you.It is very important to follow the diet recommended by your doctor to get the most benefit from this medication and to prevent serious side effects. Do not take other supplements/vitamins (e.g., calcium, vitamin D) unless directed by your doctor.Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, headache, constipation, or pain/discomfort at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: back/bone/joint/muscle pain, dry mouth, metallic taste, vomiting, sleepiness, weakness.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but very serious side effects occur: loss of appetite, dizziness, eye pain/redness/sensitivity to light, fever, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, decreased interest in sex, mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion), stomach/abdominal pain, swelling of the ankles/feet/hands (edema), increased thirst, change in the amount of urine, weight loss.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.