Description
Indications
Dicaltrol is used to treat a variety of conditions-
- Osteoporosis after menopause
- Renal osteodystrophy is a disease that affects the bones of the kidneys.
- Hypoparathyroidism after surgery
- Hypoparathyroidism caused by an unknown cause
- Pseudohypoparathyroidism
- Patients with moderate to severe chronic renal insufficiency may develop secondary hyperparathyroidism (pre-dialysis)
- Rickets is a type of rickets that is caused by a lack of vitamin
Pharmacology
Dicaltrol is one of vitamin D3’s most important active metabolites. Its precursor, 25-hydroxycholecalciferol, is normally formed in the kidneys. Calcitriol aids calcium absorption in the intestine and regulates bone mineralization. Calcitriol’s main function is to maintain calcium homeostasis, which includes stimulating osteoblastic activity in the skeleton.
Dosage & Administration
The optimal daily dose of Calcitriol capsule must be carefully determined for each patient on the basis of serum calcium level.
In Post-menopausal Osteoporosis: The recommended dose of Calcitriol capsule is 0.25 mcg twice daily.
In Renal Osteodystrophy (dialysis patients): The initial daily dose is 0.25 mcg of Calcitriol capsule. In patients with normal or only slightly reduced calcium levels, doses of 0.25 mcg every other day are sufficient.
In Hypoparathyroidism and Rickets: The recommended initial dosage of Calcitriol capsule is 0.25 mcg/day which is given in the morning. If within 2-4 weeks satisfactory response is not observed by usual dose then the dose may be increased at 2-4 weeks intervals.
The recommended intravenous initial dose of Calcitriol injection, depending on the severity of the hypocalcemia and/or secondary hyperparathyroidism, is 1 mcg (0.02 mcg/kg) to 2 mcg administered three times weekly, approximately every other day. Doses as small as 0.5 mcg and as large as 4 mcg three times weekly have been used as an initial dose. If a satisfactory response is not observed, the dose may be increased by 0.5 to 1 mcg at two to four-week intervals.
Interaction
The risk of hypercalcemia is increased when thiazide diuretics are used together. In patients receiving digitalis treatment, the dosage of calcitriol must be determined with caution, as hypercalcemia can cause cardiac arrhythmias. Hypermagnesemia can be caused by magnesium-containing drugs (such as antacids).
Contraindications
Dicaltrol should not be used by anyone who has a known hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients. Dicaltrol is also contraindicated in all hypercalcemia-related diseases.
Side Effects
Anorexia, headaches, vomiting, and constipation are all symptoms that can occur on occasion. Dystrophy, fever, polyuria, dehydration, apathy, and urinary tract infection are some of the long-term effects.
Pregnancy & Lactation
In humans, there is no evidence that vitamin D is teratogenic. Calcitriol should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks to the baby. While mothers can breastfeed while taking Calcitriol, the mother’s and infant’s serum calcium levels should be monitored.
Precautions & Warnings
If serum calcium levels rise to 1 mg/100 ml above normal or serum creatinine levels rise to >120 mol/l while on Calcitriol therapy, the dosage of Calcitriol should be reduced or the treatment stopped.
Therapeutic Class
Vitamin D preparations, vitamin in bone formation
Storage Conditions
Keep the temperature below 30°C and away from light and moisture. Keep out of children’s reach.
