Rocaltrol

The active ingredient in Rocaltrol is calcitriol, which is the active form of vitamin D. It helps enhance calcium absorption by increasing your vitamin D levels. Your blood calcium levels rise as a result. Rocaltrol also helps your gut absorb more phosphorus, which can raise your blood phosphate levels.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Rocaltrol. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Rocaltrol:

• Rocaltrol is typically taken by mouth once daily.
• Carefully measure the oral liquid. Use a pharmaceutical dose-measuring instrument or the supplied dosing syringe.
• Unless your doctor has instructed you to limit your fluid consumption, drink plenty of water.
• When taking Rocaltrol, you might need to adhere to a particular diet. Observe your doctor's or dietitian's directions, especially concerning calcium supplements. Find out what foods you should eat or stay away from to help manage your illness.

The most common side effects of calcitriol include:

• Feeling tired or sleepy.
• Headaches.
• Stomach pain.
• Muscle pain.
• Constipation.
• Dry mouth.
• Bone pain
• Loss of appetite.
• Weight loss.
• Metallic taste.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Rocaltrol. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Changes in urine, appetite loss, light sensitivity, chest pain, and a racing heart are signs of late-stage calcium toxicity.
• Itching, rash, hives, and lip swelling are symptoms of an allergic reaction.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Rocaltrol. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Rocaltrol, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• High levels of calcium (hypercalcemia/hypocalcemia) in certain people who have low parathyroid hormone levels (hypoparathyroidism).
• An allergic reaction to the medication.
• Kidney problems or kidney disease.
• Heart problems, such as irregular heartbeat or coronary artery disease.
• Do not take any non-prescription medications that have vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium, or calcium, including antacids, unless directed by your care team.

Having high levels of calcium or evidence of vitamin D toxicity.

The action of calcitriol (Rocaltrol) is rapid. When you take the drug, you might not notice any change. However, within a few days, your doctor will be able to observe a change in your calcium levels on your blood tests.

When Rocaltrol is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Cholestyramine.
• Digoxin, digitalis.
• Ketoconazole.
• A diuretic or "water pill" - hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ, Diovan HCT, Hyzaar, Maxzide, Tenoretic, Zestoretic, and others.
• Seizure medicine - phenobarbital, phenytoin.
• Steroid medicine - prednisone, dexamethasone, fluticasone, and others.
• Corticosteroids.

Calcitriol (Rocaltrol) is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

1 mcg/mL oral solution

0.25 mcg oral capsule

0.5 mcg oral capsule

For adults, 0.25 mcg per day is the usual starting dosage. Throughout treatment, your doctor will monitor your blood calcium levels. If you continue to have low levels, they may increase your dosage.

For children, the dosage of Rocaltrol will be determined by their age, weight, and purpose for taking it.

Store Rocaltrol at room temperature and out of reach of children.

Roche Pharmaceuticals is the company that manufactures Rocaltrol.

There are several lower-cost generics available for Rocaltrol.

It is not recommended to stop taking the medication without speaking to your healthcare provider.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Calcitriol is found in breast milk. So it is generally not recommended to use while breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.