home > drugs a-z list > rocaltrol (calcitriol) drug center > rocaltrol (calcitriol) drug - patient how to take

In this Article

• What is calcitriol (Rocaltrol)?
• What are the possible side effects of calcitriol (Rocaltrol)?
• What is the most important information I should know about calcitriol (Rocaltrol)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking calcitriol (Rocaltrol)?
• How should I take calcitriol (Rocaltrol)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Rocaltrol)?
• What happens if I overdose (Rocaltrol)?
• What should I avoid while taking calcitriol (Rocaltrol)?
• What other drugs will affect calcitriol (Rocaltrol)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking calcitriol (Rocaltrol)?

Do not use this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to vitamin D, or if you have:

• high levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia); or
• high levels of vitamin D in your body (hypervitaminosis D).

Before taking calcitriol, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions. You may not be able to take calcitriol, or you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Calcitriol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take calcitriol (Rocaltrol)?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Drink plenty of fluids unless your doctor has told you to restrict your fluid intake.

Call your doctor if you have ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, or if you are sweating more than usual. Becoming dehydrated while taking calcitriol can lead to an electrolyte imbalance.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. You may need blood tests as often as twice a week when you first start taking calcitriol. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Calcitriol is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include a special diet. It is very important to follow the diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutrition counselor. You should become very familiar with the list of foods you must eat or avoid to help control your condition.

If you need to be on bed-rest or have any type of surgery, your dose or testing needs may change. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture, light, and heat.