Calcitrol 0.25 mcg (Capsule)
Medicine Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Generic | Calcitriol |
| Company | Square pharmaceuticals plc |
Indications
- Post-menopausal osteoporosis
- Renal osteodystrophy
- Postsurgical hypoparathyroidism
- Idiopathic hypoparathyroidism
- Pseudohypoparathyroidism
- Secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with moderate to severe chronic renal failure (pre-dialysis)
- Vitamin D dependent rickets
Pharmacology
One of the most important active metabolites of vitamin D3. Promotes intestinal absorption of calcium and regulates bone mineralization. Regulates calcium homeostasis and stimulates osteoblastic activity in the skeleton.
Dosage & Administration
- Recommended dose for post-menopausal osteoporosis: 0.25 mcg twice daily
- Recommended dose for renal osteodystrophy (dialysis patients): 0.25 mcg initially, with adjusted doses for calcium levels
- Recommended dose for hypoparathyroidism and rickets: 0.25 mcg/day initially, with potential dose escalation over time
Interaction
Concomitant treatment with thiazide diuretics increases the risk of hypercalcemia. Digitalis treatment requires careful dosage determination to avoid hypercalcemia. Magnesium-containing drugs may cause hypermagnesemia.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients. Contraindicated in all diseases associated with hypercalcemia.
Side Effects
- Early side effects: weakness, headache, somnolence, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, constipation, muscle pain, bone pain, metallic taste
- Late side effects: polyuria, polydipsia, anorexia, weight loss, nocturia, conjunctivitis (calcific), pancreatitis, photophobia, rhinorrhea, pruritus, hyperthermia, decreased libido, elevated BUN, albuminuria, hypercholesterolemia, elevated SGOT and SGPT, ectopic calcification, hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, occasional mild pain on injection
Pregnancy & Lactation
No evidence of teratogenicity in humans. Use during pregnancy only if benefits outweigh potential risk to the fetus. Breastfeeding mothers should monitor serum calcium levels of both mother and infant.
Precautions & Warnings
Excessive dosage may induce hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria. Use cautiously in patients on digitalis. Discontinuation may result in rebound effect. Chronic hypercalcemia can lead to vascular and soft-tissue calcification.
Use in Special Populations
- Recommended initial dosage for secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with moderate to severe chronic renal failure (pre-dialysis): 0.25 mcg/day in adults and pediatric patients 3 years of age or older, with potential dosage adjustments
- Recommended initial dosage for pediatric patients less than 3 years of age: 10 to 15 ng/kg/day
- No dosage adjustments required for elderly patients
Overdose Effects
Excess administration can cause hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, and hyperphosphatemia. Treatment includes discontinuation of therapy, low calcium diet, and withdrawal of calcium supplements.
Therapeutic Class
Vitamin in bone formation, Vitamin-D preparations
Storage Conditions
Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.