Calcijex Injection (Calcitrol) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 25, 2012

Calcijex

Osteoporosis »

Osteoporosis facts

Osteoporosis is a condition of increased susceptibility to fracture due to fragile bone.
Osteoporosis weakens bone and increases risk of bone fracture.
Bone mass (bone density) decreases after 35 years of age and decreases more rapidly in women after menopause.
Key risk factors for osteoporosis include genetics, lack of exercise, lack of calcium and vitamin D, personal history of fracture as an adult, cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, history of rheumatoid arthritis, low body weight, and family history of osteoporosis.
Patients with osteoporosis have no symptoms until bone fractures occur.
The diagnosis of osteoporosis can be suggested by X-rays and confirmed by tests to measure bone density.
Treatments for osteoporosis, in addition to prescription osteoporosis medications, include stopping use of alcohol and cigarettes, and assur...

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Calcijex Injection

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Calcijex Injection Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

CALCITRIOL - INJECTION

(KAL-si-TRYE-ol)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Calcijex

USES: Calcitriol is a man-made active form of vitamin D (vitamin D3). Vitamin D is a vitamin stored in the body that is needed for building and keeping strong bones. Calcitriol is used to treat or prevent certain problems that can happen with long-term kidney dialysis, such as low levels of calcium or high levels of parathyroid hormone. Calcitriol is usually used along with a certain diet, supplements, and sometimes other medications.

Most people get enough vitamin D from exposure to the sun and from fortified food products (e.g., dairy products, vitamins). Before regular vitamin D can be used by the body, it needs to be changed to the active form by the liver and kidneys. People with kidney disease cannot make enough of the active form of vitamin D. This medication works by affecting parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and increasing blood calcium levels.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein, usually by a health care professional 3 times a week (every other day), or during dialysis, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your condition and response to therapy. Your doctor will do blood tests to find the best dose for you.

It is very important to follow the diet recommended by your doctor to get the most benefit from this medication and to prevent serious side effects. Do not take other supplements/vitamins (e.g., calcium, vitamin D) unless directed by your doctor.