Paricalcitol
Hyperparathyroidism
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Vitamin D Analog and Vitamin D2 Analog
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Paricalcitol is used to treat secondary hyperparathyroidism, which is a condition where the parathyroid glands produce too much hormone due to kidney disease. It helps manage symptoms and improve overall health outcomes by lowering parathyroid hormone levels.
Paricalcitol is a vitamin D analog, which means it works like vitamin D in your body. It helps lower parathyroid hormone levels, improving calcium and phosphorus balance. This helps manage secondary hyperparathyroidism effectively.
Paricalcitol is usually taken as a capsule or injection. The dose is often once daily, based on your doctor's instructions. You can take it with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose.
Common side effects of paricalcitol include nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. These effects are usually mild. A serious adverse effect is hypercalcemia, which is high calcium levels in the blood, requiring immediate medical attention.
Paricalcitol can increase calcium levels in your blood, leading to serious health issues like kidney stones or heart problems. Don't take it if you have high calcium levels, which is called hypercalcemia. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor calcium levels.
Indications and Purpose
How does paricalcitol work?
Paricalcitol is a vitamin D analog, which means it works like vitamin D in your body. It helps lower parathyroid hormone levels, improving calcium and phosphorus balance. Think of it like a thermostat that regulates hormone levels to keep them in a healthy range. This helps manage secondary hyperparathyroidism, which is a condition where the parathyroid glands produce too much hormone due to kidney disease.
Is paricalcitol effective?
Paricalcitol is effective in managing secondary hyperparathyroidism, which is a condition where the parathyroid glands produce too much hormone due to kidney disease. It helps lower parathyroid hormone levels, improving calcium and phosphorus balance in the body. Clinical studies show paricalcitol effectively reduces parathyroid hormone levels in patients with chronic kidney disease. This helps manage symptoms and improve overall health outcomes.
What is paricalcitol?
Paricalcitol is a medication used to treat secondary hyperparathyroidism, which is a condition where the parathyroid glands produce too much hormone due to kidney disease. It belongs to a class of drugs called vitamin D analogs. Paricalcitol works by helping to lower parathyroid hormone levels, improving calcium and phosphorus balance in the body. This helps manage symptoms and improve overall health outcomes.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take paricalcitol?
Paricalcitol is usually a long-term medication for managing secondary hyperparathyroidism, which is a condition where the parathyroid glands produce too much hormone due to kidney disease. You'll typically take paricalcitol every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health.
How do I dispose of paricalcitol?
If you can, bring unused paricalcitol to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take paricalcitol?
Paricalcitol is usually taken as a capsule or injection. If you're taking capsules, follow your doctor's instructions on the dose and timing, which is often once daily. You can take it with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. Don't double up on doses. Always follow your doctor's specific advice about how to take this medication.
How long does it take for paricalcitol to start working?
Paricalcitol begins working in your body shortly after you take it, but you may not notice all the benefits right away. For secondary hyperparathyroidism, you might see some improvement in parathyroid hormone levels within weeks. The full benefits may take longer to appear. How quickly the medication works can depend on your kidney function, age, and overall health. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store paricalcitol?
Store paricalcitol at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container. Don't store it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. Always store paricalcitol out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of paricalcitol?
The usual starting dose of paricalcitol for adults is based on your lab results and specific health needs. It's often given as an injection or capsule. Your doctor will adjust the dose as needed to manage your condition effectively. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions. If you have questions about your dose, talk with your healthcare provider.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take paricalcitol with other prescription drugs?
Paricalcitol can interact with certain medications, especially those affecting calcium levels, like calcium supplements or vitamin D. These interactions can increase the risk of high calcium levels, which is called hypercalcemia. Always tell your doctor about all medicines you take. Your doctor can help manage these interactions and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
Can paricalcitol be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Paricalcitol's safety while breastfeeding isn't well-established. We don't have much information about whether this medication passes into human breast milk. If you're taking paricalcitol and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely. Your doctor can help determine the best approach for your situation.
Can paricalcitol be taken safely while pregnant?
Paricalcitol's safety during pregnancy isn't well-established. Limited data is available, and animal studies show potential risks. It's important to weigh the benefits and risks with your doctor. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your condition. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Does paricalcitol have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. With paricalcitol, common adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. These effects are usually mild. A serious adverse effect is hypercalcemia, which is high calcium levels in the blood, requiring immediate medical attention. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms while taking paricalcitol, contact your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to the medication and suggest appropriate actions.
Does paricalcitol have any safety warnings?
Paricalcitol has important safety warnings. It can increase calcium levels in your blood, which is called hypercalcemia, leading to serious health issues like kidney stones or heart problems. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, or confusion. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor calcium levels. If you experience these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Always follow your doctor's advice and attend regular check-ups to ensure safe use of paricalcitol.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking paricalcitol?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking paricalcitol. Alcohol can affect calcium levels in your body, which may interfere with the medication's effectiveness. Drinking alcohol can also increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or nausea. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking paricalcitol to get personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking paricalcitol?
You can exercise while taking paricalcitol, but keep a few things in mind. This medication can affect calcium levels, which might make you feel dizzy or lightheaded during exercise. To exercise safely, drink plenty of water before, during, and after physical activity. Watch for signs of dizziness or unusual fatigue. If you notice these symptoms, slow down or stop exercising and rest. Check with your doctor if you have concerns about your specific situation.
Is it safe to stop paricalcitol?
Stopping paricalcitol suddenly can affect your health condition. If you're taking it for kidney disease, stopping could worsen your condition. Always talk with your doctor before stopping paricalcitol. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health.
Is paricalcitol addictive?
Paricalcitol is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Paricalcitol works by helping manage calcium levels in your body and doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that paricalcitol doesn't carry this risk.
Is paricalcitol safe for the elderly?
The elderly are more vulnerable to medication risks due to age-related changes in the body. Paricalcitol is generally safe for elderly patients, but they may be more prone to side effects like high calcium levels, which is called hypercalcemia. Regular monitoring of calcium levels is important. Always consult your doctor about the risks and benefits of paricalcitol for elderly patients.
What are the most common side effects of paricalcitol?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of paricalcitol include nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. These effects vary from person to person and are usually mild. If you notice new symptoms after starting paricalcitol, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. Your doctor can help determine if your symptoms are related to paricalcitol.
Who should avoid taking paricalcitol?
Don't take paricalcitol if you have high calcium levels in your blood, which is called hypercalcemia. This medication can worsen this condition. Paricalcitol should be used with caution in people with liver problems. Always consult your doctor about these concerns. They will evaluate your health condition and determine if paricalcitol is safe for you to use.
