About calcitriol
Active vitamin D (calcitriol)
Used for
- Treats low calcium from chronic kidney disease or hypoparathyroidism
- Treats certain metabolic bone disorders caused by kidney disease
Usual adult dose
Often starts at 0.25 micrograms once daily; dose is adjusted using blood calcium results.
Usual dose in children
Specialist-directed dosing based on age, weight, condition, and blood calcium.
Common side effects
- High blood calcium
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Weakness or headache
Important warnings
- Can dangerously raise calcium or phosphate levels; blood tests are needed.
- Avoid extra calcium or vitamin D unless prescribed.
- Kidney stones or kidney damage may occur with high calcium.
- Seek urgent care for severe thirst, frequent urination, confusion, or persistent vomiting.
Pregnancy
Use only when needed under medical supervision; calcium levels require monitoring.
Breastfeeding
May be used with medical supervision; monitor the infant for signs of high calcium.
Interactions
- Thiazide diuretics can increase high-calcium risk.
- Digoxin may increase risk of abnormal heart rhythms if calcium rises.
- Magnesium-containing antacids may cause high magnesium, especially with kidney disease.
- Cholestyramine and mineral oil can reduce absorption.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.