Rocaltrol

Health and Nutrition > Medicines > R



How does it work?

Calcitriol (1, 25-dihydroxycholecalciferol) is a vitamin D metabolite which is normally produced in the kidneys from its immediate precursor, 25-hydroxycholecalciferol. In the normal situation it controls the intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphate and plays an important part in the regulation of bone mineralisation. In chronic renal failure, the kidneys produce insufficient calcitriol and this leads to abnormalities of calcium and phosphate metabolism. Oral administration of calcitriol to patients with chronic renal failure compensates for the reduced production of calcitriol. Consequently, intestinal malabsorption of calcium and phosphate and the resulting hypocalcaemia (low blood calcium levels) are improved, thereby reversing the signs and symptoms of bone disease.

What is it used for?

- Osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
- The correction of abnormalities of calcium and phosphate metabolism in renal osteodystrophy.

Warning!

- Blood calcium levels and kidney function must be monitored whilst taking this medicine.
- All other vitamin D compounds and their derivatives, including proprietary preparations or foodstuffs, which may be "fortified" with vitamin D, should be withheld during treatment with calcitriol.

Use with caution in

- Children
- Decreased kidney function
- Monitor blood calcium levels

Not to be used in

- High levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcaemia)
- Known sensitivity or allergy to any ingredient
- Vitamin D toxicity

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.