What is Alfacalcidol?
Alfacalcidol is a Vitamin D active metabolite that plays a key role in calcium balance and bone metabolism. It is a Vitamin D-hormone analogue that is activated in the liver by the enzyme 25-hydroxylase for systemic and local D-hormone activities. It has a distinct pattern of pleiotropic effects on the gut, bone, parathyroids, muscle, and brain.
Alfacalcidol Uses
- Treats conditions such as hypocalcemia (low blood calcium levels) and rickets (bone weakness).
- Manages calcium metabolism disorders related to kidney and parathyroid gland diseases.
- Addresses nutritional deficiencies.
- Acts as a Vitamin D-hormone analogue activated by liver enzymes.
- Converts into active vitamin D3 (calcitriol) in the body.
- Enhances bone strength and regulates bodily functions.
Secure your health with a second opinion. Make informed decisions and book your appointment today!
Get A Second OpinionAlfacalcidol Side Effects
Common side effects of Alfacalcidol:
- Itching
- Rash
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Serious side effects of Alfacalcidol:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Bone and joint pain
- Muscle pain and weakness
- Increased calcium levels in the blood
- Increased calcium in urine
- Increased phosphate in blood
Alfacalcidol can lead to serious health problems in some cases. If you experience any serious symptoms, discuss them with your doctor promptly.
Precautions While Using Alfacalcidol
Before taking Alfacalcidol, discuss with your doctor if you have any allergies to it or related medications. The drug may contain active ingredients that can cause serious allergic reactions or other complications. Inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have:
- High calcium levels
- Difficulty absorbing nutrients from food
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
It's important to provide this information to ensure the safe use of Alfacalcidol and to prevent any potential health risks.
How to Use Alfacalcidol
- Dosage Instructions: Take Alfacalcidol exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is typically taken once a day. Try to take your doses at the same time each day to maintain consistency.
- Administration Tips: If you're using the liquid form, use a special measuring device/spoon to ensure accurate dosage. Using a regular household spoon may lead to incorrect dosing.
- Consistency is Key: For maximum benefit, take Alfacalcidol regularly. If you take it once daily, choose a specific time each day. If you take it weekly, stick to the same day each week.
Missed Dose
- Immediate Action: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and resume your regular schedule. Avoid doubling up doses to make up for a missed one.
Overdose
- Serious Risks: Overdosing on vitamin D can have severe or life-threatening consequences. Symptoms may include nausea, loss of appetite, unusual thirst, changes in urination, muscle weakness, confusion, or irregular heartbeats.
Interactions
- Timing Matters: Certain medications can interfere with the absorption of vitamin D. Wait at least 2 hours before or after taking Alfacalcidol to take other medications. Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including diuretics (water pills) and mineral oil.
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Alfacalcidol's use during pregnancy is not well-studied. Animal studies suggest potential reproductive toxicity at high doses. Avoid using Alfacalcidol during pregnancy unless directed by your doctor. It can also pass into breast milk, potentially causing serious side effects to your baby.
Storage
- Protect Your Medication: Store Alfacalcidol at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC), away from heat, light, and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
Ready to take control of your health journey? Book your appointment now and start your path towards wellness today!
Book an AppointmentAlfacalcidol vs Ergocalcifero
| Alfacalcidol | Ergocalcifero |
|---|---|
| Alfacalcidol is a Vitamin D active metabolite that plays a key role in calcium balance and bone metabolism. | Ergocalciferol capsules is a calcium regulator that can be taken orally. The medication is a colourless, white crystal that is water-insoluble, soluble in organic solvents, and slightly soluble in vegetable oils. |
| Alfacalcidol is a vitamin D supplement used to treat deficiency in conditions including hypocalcemia (low blood calcium levels), rickets (bone weakness), and others. | Ergocalciferol is a class of medication called vitamin D analogs. This works by helping the body to use more calcium in foods or supplements. |
Some of the common side effects of Alfacalcidol are:
|
Some of the common & major side effects of Ergocalciferol are::
|
