Dicaltrol 0.25 mcg (Capsule)
Medicine Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Generic | Calcitriol |
| Company | Drug international ltd |
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
Calcitriol is an active metabolite of vitamin D3, promoting intestinal absorption of calcium and regulating bone mineralization. It plays a key role in the regulation of calcium homeostasis, including stimulation effects on osteoblastic activity in the skeleton.
Dosage & Administration
- Recommended dose for post-menopausal osteoporosis: 0.25 mcg twice daily
- Recommended initial daily dose for renal osteodystrophy (dialysis patients): 0.25 mcg
- Recommended initial dosage for hypoparathyroidism and rickets: 0.25 mcg/day
- Recommended initial intravenous dose: 1 mcg to 2 mcg administered three times weekly
- Dose adjustment based on serum calcium levels
Interaction
Concomitant treatment with thiazide diuretics increases the risk of hypercalcemia. Careful dosage determination required for patients undergoing digitalis treatment. Magnesium-containing drugs may cause hypermagnesemia.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients. Also contraindicated in all diseases associated with hypercalcemia.
Side Effects
- Early side effects: weakness, headache, nausea, dry mouth
- Late side effects: polyuria, weight loss, conjunctivitis, hypercholesterolemia
- Occasional mild pain on injection
Pregnancy & Lactation
No evidence of teratogenicity in humans. Use during pregnancy only if benefits outweigh potential risks. Breastfeeding accompanied by monitoring of serum calcium levels.
Precautions & Warnings
- Excessive dosage induces hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria
- Caution in patients on digitalis
- Rebound effect on discontinuation, appropriate titration recommended
- Use non-aluminum phosphate-binding compounds to control serum phosphorus levels
Use in Special Populations
- Recommended initial dosage for pediatric patients less than 3 years of age: 10 to 15 ng/kg/day
Overdose Effects
Administration of Dicaltrol injection in excess can cause hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, and hyperphosphatemia. General treatment involves immediate discontinuation, 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.