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Calcitriol (1,25 Dihydroxycholecalciferol) 💊
📚 Related Subjects: | Osteoporosis
📖 About
Always check the BNF link here before prescribing.
- 💊 Calcitriol = 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol.
- It is the active form of Vitamin D (does not require renal hydroxylation).
⚡ Mechanism of Action
- ⬆️ Increases intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphate.
- 🦴 Promotes bone mineralisation and reduces bone resorption.
- 🧬 Suppresses PTH secretion (useful in secondary hyperparathyroidism).
🩺 Indications
- Vitamin D deficiency, especially with renal impairment.
- Renal osteodystrophy (CKD-related bone disease).
- Postmenopausal osteoporosis (specialist use).
💊 Dose Calcitriol (1,25 Dihydroxycholecalciferol)
| Indication | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical | 250–1000 nanograms OD 💡 1000 nanograms = 0.1 micrograms |
| 👴 Elderly | Use lower doses to avoid hypercalcaemia |
| ⚠️ Monitoring | Always individualise dose and monitor calcium/U&E closely |
⚠️ Interactions
- See BNF for full list – interactions possible with enzyme inducers, diuretics, and calcium/phosphate supplements.
⚠️ Cautions
- Hypercalcaemia (monitor serum calcium regularly).
- Risk of metastatic calcification with prolonged high doses.
- Care in patients with renal stones or vascular calcification.
🚫 Contraindications
- See BNF – avoid in persistent hypercalcaemia or severe toxicity risk.
💥 Side Effects
- ⬆️ Hypercalcaemia → symptoms: nausea, vomiting, confusion, arrhythmias.
- 🪨 Nephrocalcinosis, renal stones.
- 🌡️ Rash, urticaria (rare).
📑 References
| The content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only to support exam preparation (e.g., MLA, MRCP, USMLE) and learning. This is NOT medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or professional guidance. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional, official guidelines (e.g., NICE, GMC, BNF), or supervised clinical practice. Always verify information with current, authoritative sources. Makindo and its contributors accept no liability for any reliance on this content, including errors, omissions, or any resulting harm, loss, or consequences. By using this site, you agree to these terms. |
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