Rocaltrol (Calcitriol)

What is Rocaltrol?

Rocaltrol is a synthetic active form of Vitamin D. Vitamin D helps control parathyroid hormone and levels of certain minerals which are required for building and keeping strong bones. These minerals include calcium and phosphorus. Most people get Vitamin D from exposure to sun and from dairy products and other fortified food products. However, this Vitamin D needs to be changed to the active form, before being used by the body. 

What is Rocaltrol used for?

Rocaltrol is indicated for people suffering from kidney disease who can’t make enough amount of active form of Vitamin D. It is also used for the prevention and treatment of certain types of phosphorus, calcium or parathyroid problems.

How does Rocaltrol work?

Rocaltrol works by supplying the body with an active for of vitamin D.

How to use Rocaltrol

Follow your doctor’s instructions wisely. Your doctor will start by keeping you on a low dose and adjust the dose gradually. It is suggested to use the medicine regularly. It is very crucial to follow the diet recommendation by your physician to get the most benefit.

Avoid taking other vitamin supplements unless recommended by the doctor. If you are taking the liquid form of medicine measure your dose with a special measuring spoon and do not use normal household spoon.

Daily dosage should be as directed by the doctor. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day.

Rocaltrol warnings and precautions

Do not use Rocaltrol if you are suffering from heart disease like irregular heartbeat, coronary artery disease, kidney disease, kidney stones, and high calcium levels. Do not use Rocaltrol if you are allergic to it or to any other vitamin D products. The product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions.

Do have plenty of fluids while on the prescription period of this medicine. Pregnant women should consult their doctors before taking this medication as it may cause harm to a fetus. This medication is known to pass into breast milk and might harm a nursing infant. Therefore, lactating mothers are advised to seek prior permission from their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Rocaltrol dose?

If you have missed a Rocaltrol dose, do not take two pills on the day you remember about the missed dose. If it is almost the time of your next dose then you should miss the skipped dose and have your regularly scheduled dose. You should never take double doses.

What do I do if I have taken a Rocaltrol overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Rocaltrol, you should seek medical help right away.

Rocaltrol interactions

Before taking Rocaltrol, tell your doctor about all the medicines that you are on, especially cardiac glycosides, magnesium containing medications, phosphate binders, corticosteroids, or any drug that can speed up the removal of Rocaltrol.

While on the dosing schedule of Rocaltrol, avoid taking cholestyramine, mineral oil or orlistat because they can decrease the absorption of Vitamin D. Do not stop, start or change the dosage of any medicine before checking it with your physician.

Rocaltrol side effects

Rocaltrol side effects include constipation, eye pain, redness in the eyes, loss of appetite, sleepiness, abdominal pain, change in amount of urine, increased thirst, weakness, irregular heartbeat, and headache. In case you experience any such side effects after your Rocaltrol dose, you should contact your doctor immediately.