Common Use

Alfacalcidol (a vitamin D analogue) contains the active ingredient Alfacalcidol and is used to treat conditions related to impaired calcium metabolism caused by 1-α hydroxylation disorders, such as reduced renal function. Conditions treated with Alfacalcidol include:

• Renal osteodystrophy
• Hyperparathyroidism (a disorder with parathyroid hormone deficiency, affecting calcium and phosphorus absorption)
• Hypoparathyroidism
• Neonatal hypocalcaemia
• Nutritional and malabsorptive rickets and osteomalacia
• Pseudo-deficiency (vitamin D-dependent) rickets and osteomalacia
• Hypophosphataemic vitamin D-resistant rickets and osteomalacia
• Osteoporosis

Dosage and Direction

The standard daily dose of Alfacalcidol is 1 mcg/day. Dosage adjustments may be needed for:

• Elderly patients
• Neonates and premature infants
• Children weighing less than 20 kg

Precautions

Patients taking Alfacalcidol should undergo regular monitoring to prevent hypercalcaemia. Recommended tests include:

• Plasma calcium levels
• Parathyroid hormone levels
• Alkaline phosphatase
• Radiographic and histological investigations

Patients with chronic renal failure require particularly close monitoring, as prolonged hypercalcaemia may worsen kidney function.

Contraindications

Alfacalcidol should not be used in patients with:

• Hypercalcaemia
• Metastatic calcification
• Hyperphosphataemia (unless occurring with hypoparathyroidism)
• Hypermagnesaemia
• Vitamin D toxicity
• Hypersensitivity to vitamin D or its analogues

Possible Side Effects

Adverse reactions may include:

• Hypercalcemia
• Malaise, tiredness, or weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache and dizziness
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Abdominal or gastrointestinal pain (including heartburn)
• Heart palpitations
• Bone, muscle, or joint pain

Drug Interactions

Long-term use of anticonvulsants (including phenytoin) may alter vitamin D and calcium metabolism, potentially leading to:

• Metabolic bone disease
• Hypocalcaemia
• Seizures

Regular calcium level monitoring is essential for patients on antiepileptic drugs.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose:

• Take it as soon as you remember
• Skip if it's almost time for the next dose
• Do not double the dose
• Maintain a consistent dosing schedule to prevent missed doses

Overdose

Signs of Alfacalcidol overdose include:

• High fever
• Elevated blood pressure
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe stomach pain

Storage

Storage guidelines:

• Keep at room temperature (15-25°C or 59-77°F)
• Protect from light and moisture
• Keep away from children and pets
• Do not use after expiration date

Disclaimer

This information provides general guidelines about medications and is not comprehensive. It does not include all possible drug interactions, precautions, or dosage instructions. This content should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy of this information and are not liable for any direct or indirect consequences resulting from its use or from self-treatment.