Information about Paricalcitol

Generic Name : Paricalcitol
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Paricalcitol are provided here.

Pronunciation : par-i-KAL-si-tol

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Paricalcitol, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

Therapeutic Classification : Vitamin D Analogs

Trade Names/Brand Names of Paricalcitol

International :

Zemplar

Why is Paricalcitol Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a vitamin D compound, prescribed for hyperparathyroidism associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). It blocks the formation and release of parathyroid hormone (PTH).

When should Paricalcitol not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with evidence of vitamin D toxicity, high levels of calcium, and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Paricalcitol?

Patients 5 yr of age and older- IV- Initial : 0.04 to 0.1 mcg/kg no more frequently than every other day during dialysis. Increase dose by 2 to 4 mcg at 2- to 4-week intervals. It may be gradually increased.
Adult- 1 mcg daily or 2 mcg 3 times/week.

How should Paricalcitol be taken?

It comes as a solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider into the vein.

What are the warnings and precautions for Paricalcitol?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of heart diseases, hardening or narrowing of blood vessels, high blood phosphate level, liver impairment, or seizures, who are taking calcium supplements, any allergy, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• Take proper diet as directed by your physician.

• Avoid excessive use of aluminum-containing products while taking this medication.

• Monitor blood calcium, phosphorus, and PTH levels regularly while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Paricalcitol?

Body as a Whole - Accidental injury, pain, infection, allergic reaction, headache, abdominal pain, back pain, weakness, chest pain, fever and flu like syndrome.
Heart - High or low blood pressure, fainting, heart muscle weakness, heart failure, heart attack, and chest pain.
Gastrointestinal - Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, stomach flu, indigestion and stomach inflammation.
Blood - Excess fluid and skin discoloration.
Metabolic - Fluid retention, blood in urine, gout, dehydration, acidity and increase or decrease in blood minerals.
Musculoskeletal - Joint inflammation, leg cramps, and muscle pain.
Central Nervous System - Dizziness, depression, sleeplessness and nerve disease.
Respiratory - Inflammation of upper respiratory tract, nose bleed, cough, and pneumonia.
Skin - Rash, itching, skin ulcer, scar and rash.
Eye - Abnormal vision and retinal disorder.
Genitourinary - Urinary tract infection and kidney impairment.