Rocaltrol (Calcitriol)

Do’s

• Take Rocaltrol by mouth, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily.
• Use the provided measuring spoon or device to measure the liquid form of Rocaltrol. Do not use a regular household spoon.
• Take Rocaltrol regularly to get the most benefit from it. Take it at the same time each day to help you remember.
• Follow the diet recommended by your healthcare provider to get the most benefit from Rocaltrol and prevent side effects.
• Talk to your healthcare provider before taking other supplements/vitamins (including calcium and vitamin D).
• Ask your healthcare provider about creating a dosing schedule that works with all your medications if you are taking bile acid sequestrants, mineral oil, orlistat.

Don'ts

• Don't use the provided measuring spoon or device for the liquid form.
• Don't take Rocaltrol regularly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't follow the recommended diet by your healthcare provider.
• Don't take other supplements/vitamins without consulting your healthcare provider first.

Common side effects:

• Hypercalcemia (abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood)
• Hypercalciuria (elevated levels of calcium in the urine)
• Increased levels of phosphate in the blood
• Loss of appetite
• Back/bone/joint/muscle pain
• Weakness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Metallic taste
• Abdominal pain
• Epigastric distress
• Rhinorrhea (runny nose)

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Symptoms of digoxin toxicity, such as irregular heartbeats, if used in combination with digoxin
• Excessive vitamin D intake symptoms: weakness, headache, somnolence, dry mouth, metallic taste, anorexia, abdominal pain, and more
• Serious allergic reactions
• Severe stomach pain or bloating
• Severe constipation
• Urinating less than usual or not at all
• Confusion or hallucinations
• Fast or slow heart rate
• Lung problems, including increased wheezing, cough, or phlegm
• Mental/mood changes, such as confusion or hallucinations
• Eye pain or changes in vision
• Serious electrolyte imbalance
• Kidney failure

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Rocaltrol,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider of any allergies you have, especially to calcitriol or other vitamin D products.

Tell your healthcare provider about your medical history, particularly if you have:

• High calcium levels
• Heart disease (irregular heartbeat, coronary artery disease)
• Kidney disease (including kidney stones)

Tell your healthcare provider if you are having surgery or will be confined to a chair/bed for a long period. Drink plenty of fluids unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.

Discuss the risks and benefits of Rocaltrol with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding if you are taking Rocaltrol. It is unknown if the medication passes into breast milk.