Zemplar Injection (Paricalcitol Injection Fliptop Vial) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Zemplar

Kidney Failure »

What are the kidneys?

The kidneys play key roles in body function, not only by filtering the blood and getting rid of waste products, but also by balancing levels of electrolyte levels in the body, controlling blood pressure, and stimulating the production of red blood cells.

The kidneys are located in the abdomen toward the back, normally one on each side of the spine. They get their blood supply through the renal arteries directly from the aorta and send blood back to the heart via the renal veins to the vena cava. (The term "renal" is derived from the Latin name for kidney.)

The kidneys have the ability to monitor the amount of body fluid, the concentrations of electrolytes like sodium and potassium, and the acid-base balance of the body. They filter waste products of body metabolism, like urea from protein metabolism and uric acid from DNA breakdown. Two waste products in the blood can be measured: blood urea nitrogen (BUN) ...

Read the Kidney Failure article »

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Zemplar 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.

PARICALCITOL - ORAL

(pear-ih-KAL-sit-ole)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zemplar

USES: Paricalcitol is used to treat and prevent high levels of a certain natural substance made by the body (parathyroid hormone) in patients with long-term kidney disease. In these patients, the high level of parathyroid hormone is caused by a low level of calcium and a certain kind of vitamin D. Too much parathyroid hormone can cause serious problems such as bone disorders. Paricalcitol is a man-made form of vitamin D. It helps to reduce parathyroid hormone levels and may help your body absorb calcium and phosphorus.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once daily or 3 times a week or as directed by your doctor. If you are taking this medication 3 times a week, do not take it more often than every other day.

Dosage is based on your laboratory tests and response to treatment.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. If you are taking this medication on a schedule other than every day (e.g., 3 times a week), it may help to mark your calendar with a reminder.

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 ordered by your doctor.