What is Hectorol?
Hectorol, a synthetic form of vitamin D, is essential for calcium absorption from the stomach as well as for calcium's proper functioning in the body.Hectorol helps maintain healthy parathyroid hormone levels in those with chronic renal disease on dialysis.Hectorol can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Hectorol
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, chest discomfort, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
Hectorol can cause serious side effects. Hectorol should be stopped immediately, and you should consult your doctor if:
- Chest pain and slow heartbeats
- High calcium levels: nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, lack of energy, loss of weight, and tiredness
- Signs of infection include fever, warmth, redness, and vomiting. Diarrhea.
- Low red blood cells (anemia): pale or pale skin, feeling of being light-headed, shortness of breath, or cold hands or feet;
- Dehydration symptoms: feeling thirsty or very hot, not being able to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and dried skin.
Hectorol can cause the following side effects:
- Numbness, tingling, burning pain;
- Infections that make you feel unwell
- The symptoms of a cold include sneezing and a stuffy nose.
- Itching;
- Headache, dizziness, weakness;
- Sleep problems are often an indicator of depression.
- Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, constipation;
- Feeling short of breath
- Muscle stiffness.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice about any side effects, always call your physician first. For reporting purposes, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 - for quick assistance on reporting these incidents.
Similar/related drugs
cinacalcet, Sensipar, paricalcitol, doxercalciferol, and Zemplar
Warnings
Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, your allergies, and the medicines you are using.
Before you take this drug
Hectorol should not be used if the user is allergic to it or has high vitamin D and calcium levels in their body.
Inform your physician of any of the following issues:
- Liver disease
- A vitamin d deficiency;
- Hypercalcemia is a condition where you have high calcium levels in your blood.
Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or breastfeeding.You should watch out for hypercalcemia symptoms in your infant if you are breastfeeding while receiving Hectorol. These include feeding problems, vomiting, or constipation.Hectorol should not be used by anyone under the age of 18.
How to take Hectorol?
Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow the directions. Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. Your medication must be taken exactly as prescribed.Hectorol can be taken either daily or three times per week.Follow your doctor's orders exactly.Hectorol orally is taken by mouth.Hectorol is injected into a vein after dialysis. This injection will be given by a healthcare provider.You will have to test your blood frequently. The results may cause you to delay your doses.Tests can be used to determine whether hectorol works, even if there are no symptoms.Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you missed a Hectorol dose, call your doctor to get instructions.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately if you suspect poisoning and seek immediate medical help.
What should be avoided?
Do not take calcium or vitamin D supplements without first consulting with your physician.
Interaction with other drug
Hectorol can be less effective if taken with certain medicines. Take your oral dose of this medicine 1 hour before or 4 to 8 hours after taking the other medicine.
- Cholestyramine; or
- Mineral oil.
Tell your doctor all of your other medications, including:
- Digoxin;
- An antacid;
- Antifungal or antibacterial medicine
- A calcium or vitamin d supplement is recommended.
- A diuretic, or "water pill,"
- Seizure medicine.
This list is incomplete. Hectorol may be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines and vitamin and herb products. This list does not include all possible drug interactions.
