GENERIC NAME: PARICALCITOL - INJECTABLE (pear-ih-KAL-sit-ole)
BRAND NAME(S): Zemplar
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Paricalcitol is a man-made form of vitamin D used to reduce or prevent high parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in people with long-term kidney failure (chronic renal failure - CRF). High parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels can cause low calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood.
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. Inject this medication into a vein (IV) usually every other day or at any time during dialysis; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to therapy. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, headache, or constipation may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Promptly tell your doctor if you notice any of these side effects: decreased interest in sex, fever. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: drowsiness, lightheadedness, vomiting, dry mouth, metallic taste in the mouth, unusual weakness, bone pain, muscle pain, swelling. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: chills, weight loss, loss of appetite, eye problems, stomach pain, sensitivity to light, severe runny nose, itching, dizziness. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: irregular heartbeat, severe mental/mood changes, bloody or tarry stool, fever, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
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.
- Kidney Failure - Learn about kidney failure, in which the body has fluid retention, risen blood pressure, toxin build up and lack of red blood cells. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, and apetite loss.
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