Health Library

Calcitriol (By injection)

Calcitriol (kal-si-TRYE-ol)

Treats low calcium. This medicine is a form of vitamin D.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Missed dose: You must use this medicine on a fixed schedule. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you miss a dose.
• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets.
• If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not take vitamin supplements or other forms of vitamin D while you are taking calcitriol. Do not use antacids that contain magnesium without first checking with your doctor.
• Some medicines can affect how calcitriol works. Tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following:
  • Anticonvulsant medicine, such as carbamazepine, phenobarbital, or phenytoin
  • Digitalis
  • Steroids, such as hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisone

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any medical problems.
• Do not use more calcitriol than your doctor ordered. Too much of this medicine may cause a dangerous amount of calcium to build up in your body.
• If you are not on dialysis, drink extra liquids to prevent dehydration. Ask your doctor how much liquid to drink each day.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Bone pain
• Cloudy or foaming urine
• Irregular heartbeat
• Nausea and vomiting, long-lasting headache, constipation, sleepiness, weakness
• Severe stomach pain

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024