What is the Calcifediol?
Calcifediol is vitamin D3. Vitamin D plays a vital role in calcium absorption from the stomach as well as the function of calcium within the body.The treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism is given to adults with stage 3 or 4, chronic kidney failure, and low levels of vitamin D. Calcifediol should not be used by people receiving dialysis.This medication guide does not list all possible uses of calcifediol.
Side effects of Calcifediol
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergy: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling in your lips, face, throat, or tongue
The side effects of calcifediol can be serious. If you experience:
- Rapid weight gain, swelling, and shortness of breath even with light exertion;
- High calcium levels can cause confusion, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Other symptoms include loss of appetite or increased thirst, constipation, or increased urination.
- Low red blood cell (anemia): pale or unusually tired skin; feeling of being light-headed, short-breathing, and cold hands and/or feet.
Side effects common to calcifediol include:
- Constipation is a common symptom.
- Sneezing or runny nose
There may be other side effects. Call your physician immediately if experiencing side effects. For medical advice about them.Report side effects by calling the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Ergocalciferol, Calcium Carbonate, Calcitriol, Caltrate, Drisdol, Rocaltrol, and Rayaldee
Warnings
Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication. Inform your doctors about your allergies and medical conditions. Inform them which medications you are currently taking.
Before you take this drug
If you've ever:
- Heart problems
- Hypercalcemia is a condition where you have high calcium levels in your blood.
Inform your physician immediately if you plan to become pregnant. The effects of calcifediol on an unborn child are not yet known. Chronic kidney disease can cause pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage or premature birth. It may also lead to low birthweight, stillbirths, and eclampsia, a dangerously high blood pressure that is harmful for both the mother and child. Treatment of kidney disease can be beneficial to both mother and baby.Tell your doctor if breastfeeding is going on and if the baby shows signs of nausea, constipation, or weight loss.
How to take Calcifediol?
Read and follow all instructions or guides provided with your medication.Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. You must take the medication exactly as prescribed.Every night, take calcifediol before bedtime.Do not open, crush, chew on or break a capsule.Medical tests will be required frequently.Keep away from heat and moisture. Store at room temperature.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for hypocalcemia:
Initial dose: 100 mcg every alternate day, or 50 mcg once daily.
Maintaining dose: Increase by up to 20 mcg/dose every 4 weeks.
Adult dose for renal osteoarthritis:
Initial dose: 100 mcg every alternate day, or 50 mcg once daily.
Maintaining dose: Increase by up to 20 mcg/dose every 4 weeks.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Do not take the dose you missed. Use your next dose as usual. Use only one dose at a time.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue or irritability, weakness in the muscles, extreme thirst or heat, and urinating more than normal.
What should be avoided?
Before using any vitamin or mineral supplement, consult your doctor. Take care when taking calcium and vitamin D together.
Interaction with other drug
It is sometimes not safe to take certain medications at the same time. Certain drugs may affect the blood level of the drugs that you are taking, increasing side effects and making them less effective.
Inform your doctor of all other medications you are taking, including:
- Cholestyramine;
- Digoxin, digitalis;
- Phenobarbital and other seizure medications
- Antifungal or antibacterial medicine
- Antiviral medicines to treat hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS.
- A diuretic, or "water pills."
- Heart medication
- Calcium- or vitamin D-containing medications and mineral supplements
The list of drugs that can interact with calcifediol is incomplete. Many other medications may also be affected. These include prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, and other products. This list does not include all possible drug interactions.
