Calcitriol is the active form of vitamin D3 essential for maintaining healthy calcium and phosphate levels in the body. It plays a key role in bone health and is vital for patients with kidney disorders or low calcium levels.
This medication is commonly used to treat conditions like chronic kidney disease-related bone disorders, hypocalcemia, and certain types of rickets.
Calcitriol helps the body absorb calcium from the diet and reduces calcium loss through urine. It also regulates parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, making it effective for managing secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Available in capsules, drops, and ointment forms, it provides targeted relief and support. Its benefits are particularly significant in patients who cannot convert vitamin D into its active form naturally.
What is Calcitriol?
Calcitriol is the active form of vitamin D3, also known as 1, 25-dihydroxycholecalciferol. Unlike cholecalciferol, which requires conversion in the liver and kidneys, calcitriol is already in its biologically active state. It plays a crucial role in calcium metabolism and bone health.
Calcitriol tablets and calcitriol capsules are commonly prescribed to patients with kidney problems or parathyroid gland disorders, especially when the body cannot convert regular vitamin D into its active form. This makes calcitriol vitamin D essential in certain medical conditions.
What are the Uses of Calcitriol?
Calcitriol helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body, promoting healthy bone formation.
It is commonly used to treat conditions like osteoporosis, hypocalcemia, and kidney-related mineral imbalances.
Calcitriol Uses
Treats low calcium levels in patients with chronic kidney disease (especially those on dialysis)
Manages hypoparathyroidism, a condition where the parathyroid glands produce insufficient hormone
Helps control calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood
Prevents bone diseases such as osteomalacia and rickets
Conditions Calcitriol Treats
Secondary hyperparathyroidism in dialysis patients
Renal osteodystrophy
Hypocalcemia due to hypoparathyroidism or pseudohypoparathyroidism
Secondary Uses of Calcitriol
Sometimes used off-label in managing osteoporosis, vitamin D-resistant rickets, or psoriasis (in topical form such as calcitriol ointment)
How Does Calcitriol Work?
Calcitriol functions by increasing calcium absorption from the intestines, reducing calcium excretion through the kidneys, and mobilizing calcium from bones when needed.
Unlike cholecalciferol, which must be metabolized into its active form, calcitriol directly interacts with vitamin D receptors in various tissues, particularly in the bones, kidneys, and intestines.
It also regulates parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion, helping prevent calcium and phosphate imbalances.
When comparing cholecalciferol and calcitriol, the key difference is that calcitriol is used when the body is unable to activate vitamin D naturally.
Calcitriol Dose and How to Take It
The calcitriol dose varies based on the condition but is typically administered orally once or twice daily, as prescribed by your doctor. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and take it with food to improve absorption.
Typical Calcitriol Dosage
Dialysis patients: Start with 0.25 mcg daily; may increase by 0.25 mcg every 4-8 weeks
Hypoparathyroidism: Usually 0.25-2 mcg per day, depending on severity
Psoriasis or skin issues: Use as calcitriol ointment as directed by a dermatologist
How to Use Calcitriol Tablets or Capsules?
Take calcitriol tablets or calcitriol capsules by mouth once daily, with or without food. For best results, take it at the same time each day. If using liquid form, use a proper measuring device.
Missed Dose of Calcitriol?
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one, not double your dose.
What Happens in Case of Calcitriol Overdose?
An overdose of Calcitriol can lead to dangerously high calcium levels in the blood. This may result in serious health issues if not treated promptly.
Like any medication, calcitriol capsules can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. These may vary depending on dosage, medical condition, and individual sensitivity.
Consult your doctor if symptoms are severe or persist.
Precautions and Warnings
Before taking calcitriol capsules or calcitriol tablets, it's important to understand the potential risks and take necessary precautions to avoid complications.
Always take calcitriol under medical supervision, especially if you have existing health conditions or are on other medications.
Who Should Avoid Calcitriol?
Pregnant or breastfeeding women (use only if clearly needed)
Children (unless prescribed specifically)
Patients with hypercalcemia or known sensitivity to vitamin D products
Use with Caution If You Have
Kidney stones
Liver problems
Allergies to other forms of vitamin D
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Calcitriol?
Calcitriol can be used in all age groups under medical supervision, but dosage adjustments are necessary, especially in children and the elderly.
Alcohol or Food Interactions
Excessive calcium or vitamin D in the diet may amplify side effects
Take with or without food, but maintain consistency
Avoid alcohol if it worsens your medical condition
Possible Drug Interactions with Calcitriol
Taking calcitriol tablets or calcitriol capsules alongside other medications can sometimes cause adverse effects or reduce the effectiveness of either drug.
It's essential to be aware of potential interactions and to consult your doctor or pharmacist before combining treatments.
Major Drug Interactions
These medications may significantly alter the effects of calcitriol or increase the risk of serious side effects:
Idelalisib - May elevate calcium levels, leading to complications when taken with calcitriol.
Ivacaftor - May interfere with vitamin D metabolism, affecting calcitriol efficacy.
Moderate Drug Interactions
These drugs may require dose adjustments or additional monitoring when used with calcitriol:
Efavirenz - May reduce vitamin D levels, potentially affecting calcitriol's effectiveness.
Elvitegravir - Can alter vitamin D metabolism and calcium balance.
Axitinib - This may interact with the body's ability to regulate calcium.
Linagliptin - May increase sensitivity to calcitriol or vitamin D analogs.
Mitotane - Can interfere with vitamin D metabolism, reducing calcitriol's action.
Dabrafenib - May reduce plasma levels of calcitriol through enzyme induction.
Always inform your doctor or healthcare provider about all the prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, herbal products, and dietary supplements you are taking.
This helps prevent unwanted drug interactions and ensures your treatment plan is safe and effective.
How Should Calcitriol Be Stored?
To ensure the medication remains effective, it is important to store calcitriol properly. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Make sure the container is tightly closed when not in use. Additionally, ensure that it is kept out of reach of children.
Storage Guidelines
Store at room temperature: 68° F to 77° F (20° C to 25° C)
Keep away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight
Do not freeze
If Not Stored Properly
Exposure to heat, moisture, or air may reduce the effectiveness of calcitriol capsules or tablets. Always keep it tightly sealed and out of reach of children and pets.
Calcitriol vs Alfacalcidol
Calcitriol
Alfacalcidol
Calcitriol is a vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) active form that is synthesized. It is used to treat and prevent low calcium levels in patients with kidney failure.
Alfacalcidol is a vitamin D-hormone analogue activated by liver enzymes. It converts into calcitriol, helping improve bone strength and regulate various bodily functions.
Calcitriol is mainly prescribed for individuals with kidney disease who cannot produce active Vitamin D.
Alfacalcidol is often used to treat vitamin D deficiency and related conditions.
Common and serious side effects of Calcitriol include:
Calcitriol increases calcium levels in the bloodstream by enhancing calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, boosting calcium and phosphorus absorption from the intestine, and promoting their release from the bones. It helps the body effectively use calcium from both food and supplements.
Calcitriol is an active form of vitamin D. You should avoid taking other vitamin D supplements concurrently unless prescribed by your healthcare provider, as this may increase the risk of excessive calcium levels (hypercalcemia).
Yes, calcitriol has a direct yet mild effect on the kidneys. It promotes calcium reabsorption and reduces calcium loss through urine. Additionally, it regulates parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion by affecting calcium receptor levels and inhibiting the transcription of the PTH gene.
Calcitriol 0.25 mcg assists in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the intestine and supports their proper use throughout the body, helping to maintain healthy bones and calcium balance.
Calcitriol capsules are commonly prescribed for managing low levels of vitamin D, especially in patients with chronic kidney disease or other conditions that affect calcium and phosphate metabolism.
These combination capsules are used to treat or prevent calcium deficiency-related conditions such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia, and certain cases of hypocalcemia.
The onset of action varies, but most patients notice an improvement in calcium levels within a few weeks of starting treatment with Rocaltrol.
Calciferol is a general term used for vitamin D compounds. It can refer to either vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) or vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Cholecalciferol is a specific form of vitamin D3, which is naturally produced in the skin when exposed to sunlight. It is also available as a dietary supplement and is more effective at raising and maintaining overall vitamin D levels in the body compared to ergocalciferol.
Calcitriol ointment is used topically to treat plaque psoriasis, a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches. It works by regulating skin cell production and reducing inflammation, helping to clear up psoriatic lesions and reduce symptoms such as scaling, redness, and itching.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
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