Alfacalcidol
Uses of Alfacalcidol
Alfacalcidol is primarily used to manage conditions related to vitamin D deficiency and mineral imbalances. This medicine belongs to the class of synthetic analogues of vitamin D.
It is also used to manage renal osteodystrophy in patients with chronic kidney disease, hypoparathyroidism (underactive parathyroid gland), rickets and osteomalacia (softening of bones due to vitamin D deficiency), postmenopausal osteoporosis, and hypophosphatemia (low blood phosphate levels). Additionally, it can be used to manage secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients undergoing chronic renal dialysis.
Side effects of Alfacalcidol
Hypercalcaemia (high blood calcium levels)
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Headache
Fatigue and muscle weakness
How Alfacalcidol works
Alfacalcidol is a synthetic analogue of vitamin D.
It is converted to calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, in the liver. Calcitriol then binds to vitamin D receptors located in the intestines, bones, and kidneys. This binding stimulates calcium absorption from the food we eat and lessens calcium loss from the bones, helping to normalise calcium and phosphate levels in the body. Alfacalcidol also regulates the secretion of parathyroid hormone, a hormone that is involved in bone resorption. This prevents excessive breakdown and resorption of bones, promotes healthy bone mineralisation, and reduces the risk of bone disorders.
Certified content
Written By
Doctor of Medicine
Reviewed By
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Alfacalcidol can be given orally (capsule and oral drop) and intravenously (injection).
Age and Dose Restrictions
Alfacalcidol can be used by both adults and children.
Contraindications
Alfacalcidol is contraindicated in patients with hypercalcemia or evidence of vitamin D toxicity. It should be used cautiously in those with hyperphosphatemia or a history of kidney stones.
Other Medications to Avoid
This medicine can interact with antacids containing magnesium (such as aluminium hydroxide and magnesium carbonate), anticonvulsants (such as phenytoin), thiazide diuretics (such as hydrochlorothiazide and chlorthalidone), and certain cholesterol-lowering medicines (like cholestyramine and colestipol).
Overdose and Missed Dose
Overdose of Alfacalcidol can lead to symptoms like hypercalcemia, which is manifested as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dry mouth, constipation or diarrhoea. If these symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention.
If a dose is missed, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up the dose to catch up. If you miss a dose of injectable Alfacalcidol, contact your doctor for instructions.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Drinking plenty of fluids can help manage nausea and vomiting.
For constipation, try to eat fibre-rich foods and maintain a regular eating schedule.
Ensure to rest and relax if you're feeling fatigued or weak.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Alfacalcidol can sometimes cause fatigue or muscle weakness. Therefore, it may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Avoid such activities if you feel dizzy or weak after taking this medication.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
Alfacalcidol should only be used in pregnancy if clearly needed, as it can pass into the breast milk. Therefore, caution is advised during breastfeeding.
Caution in Other Conditions
Frequent monitoring of serum calcium, phosphate, and kidney function is necessary during treatment with Alfacalcidol. Patients with impaired kidney or liver function may require lower doses. Also, prolonged immobilisation can lead to hypercalcemia, so the dose may need to be reduced temporarily in such cases.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor vitamin D levels are recommended.
Frequently asked questions
Is Alfacalcidol a type of vitamin D?
Yes, Alfacalcidol is a type of vitamin D3. It is a synthetic analogue of vitamin D and plays a vital role in managing calcium and phosphate levels in the body.
Does Alfacalcidol need to be taken with food?
Yes, Alfacalcidol is typically taken with food to enhance absorption. This applies to both oral capsules and oral drops. However, food does not affect the absorption of injectable Alfacalcidol.
Can Alfacalcidol cause any side effects?
Yes, some common side effects associated with Alfacalcidol include hypercalcaemia (high blood calcium levels), nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, headache, dry mouth, fatigue, muscle weakness, rash, itching, constipation or diarrhoea.
Is there an alternative medicine to Alfacalcidol?
Several medications can manage low levels of active vitamin D and mineral imbalances. However, the choice of alternative medicine would depend on the individual’s specific condition and should be decided by a doctor.
Does Alfacalcidol have any effect on mood?
Alfacalcidol primarily works on the calcium and phosphate metabolism in your body. It does not have any known effects on mood.
How long does Alfacalcidol stay in the body?
The half-life of Alfacalcidol is about 16 hours. However, this can vary depending on your body's metabolism, age, health status, and other factors.
Is it possible to develop a dependency on Alfacalcidol?
Alfacalcidol is not known to cause dependence or withdrawal symptoms. However, abruptly stopping the medicine without consulting your doctor is not advised.
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