Drugs & Vitamins

Active Ingredients: Calcitriol
Other Names: Rocaltrol Capsules
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Calcitriol Capsules? (Back to top)
CALCITRIOL is a man made form of vitamin D. It helps your body keep the proper levels of calcium and phosphorus and maintain healthy bones and teeth. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• kidney disease
• parathyroid disease
• receiving dialysis treatment
• an unusual or allergic reaction to calcitriol, vitamin D, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 1 year old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)
Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

• vitamin D

• calcium supplements
• cholestyramine
• corticosteroids
• digoxin
• ketoconazole
• magnesium supplements
• phenobarbital
• phenytoin
• phosphate-binding agents
• some antacids
• thiazide diuretics

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• bone pain
• increased thirst
• increased urination (especially at night)
• irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• seizures
• unexpected weight loss
• unusually weak or tired

• constipation
• dry mouth
• headache
• loss of appetite
• metallic taste
• stomach upset

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You will need to have important lab work done while you are taking this medicine.

You will need to be on a special diet while you are taking this medicine. Do not take any non-prescription medicines that have vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium, or calcium including antacids, unless directed by your doctor. Limit the amount of calcium you get each day as directed. The extra supplements can cause side effects.

Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Last Updated:April 11, 2008

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