Rocaltrol (Calcitriol)

Description

Rocaltrol, also known as Calcitriol, is a medication used to treat conditions that are caused as a result of high or low parathyroid hormone levels. This drug is a synthetic form of vitamin D and thus is able to control the level of parathyroid hormones in an individual’s body.

How it Works

Since Rocaltrol is a form of Vitamin D, it works by affecting the parathyroid levels in the body. It influences the body to absorb and use calcium and phosphate properly. This way, it ensures that there is a normal level of bone development and maintenance in the body. The medication also has the ability to control low calcium levels and certain other minerals in the body.

Uses

Although people get sufficient levels of vitamin D due from fortified food consumption and sun exposure, this synthetic drug enables an individual to control the amount of active vitamin D in one’s body. By controlling parathyroid hormones and certain minerals such as calcium, the drug influences strong bone development. This medication is used amongst kidney patients who are unable to create active forms of vitamin D by themselves.

Moreover, Rocaltrol is also used to treat certain types of bone diseases such as osteomalacia and rickets.

Dosage

This medication is mostly taken through the mouth, with or without food. Although the usual dosage is one tablet a day, your physician might prescribe you something different depending on your personal condition and response to the treatment. It is best to start off with a low dosage since it will enable you to get used to the medication and will also reduce the risk of side effects. In order to benefit from this medication, you must take it regularly. So, do not take skip or miss your doses.

If you are taking other medications, it is best to take this medication during bedtime. Certain medications can decrease the absorption of vitamin D and can thereby affect the effectiveness of Rocaltrol. Make sure to ask your physician to create a suitable dosing schedule to avoid this problem.

Side Effects

Although this medication has some side effects, you cannot be sure that you will get affected by them. However, it is best to stay on the lookout for the following:

 Mood changes
 Irregular heartbeat
 Loss of appetite
 Increased thirst
 Frequent urination
 Stomach pain
 Unexplained weight loss

If you do experience any of the above, contact your healthcare provider for immediate medical assistance.

Precautions

By adhering to the following precautions, you will be able to reduce the risk of the above side effects to a significant extent.

 Do not drive or operate machinery after a dose since Rocaltrol can cause drowsiness

 Follow the diet plan prescribed by your physician

 Keep up with your doctor’s appointments in order to stay aware about the occurrence of possible side effects

 Do not use this medication on children since the effectiveness and safety has not yet been confirmed

Self Care

Do not increase your dosage without consulting your physician first. Doing so will not accelerate the effectiveness of the treatment but will only increase the risk of side effects and can even lead to overdose. Therefore, it is important to stick to your dose schedule at all times.

If you become pregnant during the treatment period, inform your physician immediately. Using this drug during pregnancy can affect the baby’s health. Thus, it is best to stay away from the medication during this time. The same applies for breastfeeding too.