Calcitriol

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Calcitriol is used to regulate calcium levels in the blood. It is a Vitamin D analogue that promotes the absorption of calcium from the intestinal tract. It may be used to treat calcium deficiency associated with hypoparathyroidism.

How do I give this medication?

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• If the medicine is a liquid, measure the dose with reasonable care.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time(s) each day.
• DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed.
• DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any doses since symptoms may rapidly redevelop.
• DO NOT stop giving this medication to your pet without first consulting the veterinarian. Contact your veterinarian ahead of time if your pet requires medication refills.

What do I do if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

• Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
• Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Are there any potential side effects?

• If your pet receives too much medication, the calcium levels in the blood may get too high. If this occurs, your pet will exhibit the following symptoms: excessive urination, excessive thirst and diminished appetite. If this occurs, contact your veterinarian.
• If calcium levels are too low, your pet may develop muscle tremors, twitching, weakness, stiff movement, trouble coordinating muscle activity, changes in behavior or seizures. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any of these side effects.
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

What are the possible drug interactions?

• Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication or supplements you are giving to your pet.
• Quite often, your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, even if a drug interaction may occur. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• The following medications when given with calcitriol: magnesium containing antacids, thiazide diuretics, corticosteroids, phenytoin, barbiturates or primidone, verapamil, digoxin, mineral oil, sucralfate, cholestyramine, colestipol
• Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.