Information about Alfacalcidol
Generic Name : Alfacalcidol
Pronunciation : al-fă-kal′si-dol
Latest prescription information about Alfacalcidol. Learn how to pronounce the drug's name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its storage instructions . Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
Therapeutic Classification : Vitamins
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Trade Names/Brand Names of Alfacalcidol
India :
More... International :
Alfa-D, One-Alpha
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Why is Alfacalcidol Prescribed? (Indications)
Alfacalcidol related to vitamin D used as a supplementation for treating vitamin D deficiencies such as osteomalacia and rickets. It helps to treat low calcium level in the blood and bone disorders caused by parathyroid disease and kidney failure.
Since alfacalcidol does not require any activation process by the kidneys like other vitamin D supplements, it is more useful for people who have kidney problems.
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When should Alfacalcidol not be taken? (Contraindications)
Contraindicated in patients with high blood calcium, phosphate, and magnesium and known hypersensitivity.
What is the dosage of Alfacalcidol?
Adult- PO- The recommended starting dose is 1mcg/day. Maintenance: 0.25-1 mcg/day.
Adult- IV- The recommended initial dose is 1 mcg per dialysis two to three times a week.
How should Alfacalcidol be taken?
It comes as a capsule to take by mouth, with food.
It also comes as a solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider into the vein.
What are the warnings and precautions for Alfacalcidol?
• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of kidney stones, heart or kidney disease, high level of calcium in blood, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Monitor blood electrolytes level regularly while taking this medication.
• Monitor serum levels of calcium in patients with kidney failure.
What are the side effects of Alfacalcidol?
• Gastrointestinal :
Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and increased thirst.
• Central Nervous System :
Headache, fainting and lack of energy.
• Skin :
Increased sweating, itching, rash and hives.
• Genitourinary: :
Increased urination, kidney impairment, and excessive urinary calcium excretion.
What are the other precautions for Alfacalcidol?
Avoid excess dosage.
What are the storage conditions for Alfacalcidol?
Capsules: Store it at room temperature (25°C), and in an airtight container.
Injection: Store it in a cool place (below 15°C).
Last Updated : Jul 2018
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Does this medication cause severe constipation for some patients? The "Side Effects" site diarrhea, however after taking the prescribed dosage 1mcg I suffered from severe constipation, whereas my bowel movementa are otherwise normal.Would appreciate a response.