Alfacalcidol

Alfacalcidol is a synthetic analogue of Vitamin D3 that rapidly converts in the liver to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (Calcitriol), promoting intestinal calcium absorption and bone mineralization.

Indicated in adult patients with chronic renal failure for the management of hypocalcemia, secondary hyperparathyroidism, and renal osteodystrophy.

Vitamin in bone formation, Vitamin-D preparations

Vitamin D3 Analogue

Alfacalcidol stimulates intestinal calcium and phosphorus absorption, bone calcium reabsorption, and renal calcium conservation. It reduces elevated plasma PTH levels and relieves bone pain in chronic kidney disease.

Undergoes 25-hydroxylation in the liver to active Calcitriol, which binds to vitamin D receptors to regulate calcium and phosphate homeostasis.

Initial Dose: 0.25 mcg/day for first 2 months. Can be titrated by 0.25 mcg/day every 2 months. Maintenance Dose: 0.5 mcg to 1 mcg/day. Reduce dose by 50% if hypercalcemia develops.

Oral administration. Take daily as prescribed by physician.

Take as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose.

Hypercalcemia, elevated BUN, dry mouth, metallic taste, nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, anorexia, pruritus, bone pain, and hypertension.

Regular monthly monitoring of serum calcium and phosphate levels is required. Caution in patients with history of renal calculi.

Contraindicated in patients with hypercalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, evidence of vitamin D toxicity, or hypersensitivity to the drug.

Thiazides increase hypercalcemia risk. Antiepileptics (carbamazepine, phenytoin) increase vitamin D requirements. Corticosteroids reduce efficacy.

High calcium diets should be monitored to prevent hypercalcemia.

Avoid during pregnancy unless clearly needed. Hypercalcemia during pregnancy can cause congenital disorders.

Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.

Excreted in human milk. Breastfeeding during treatment should be avoided.

Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established.

Use with caution and monitor serum calcium levels in elderly patients.

Indicated for renal failure; requires strict monitoring of serum calcium and phosphate levels.

Discontinue drug and all calcium supplements immediately upon signs of hypercalcemia. Rehydrate patient as needed.

Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Alfacalcidol (C27H44O2)

Question: What is Alfacalcidol and what is it used for? Answer: Alfacalcidol is an analogue of Vitamin D3. It is indicated for adult patients with chronic renal failure for the management of hypocalcemia, secondary hyperparathyroidism, and renal osteodystrophy. Question: How is Alfacalcidol administered? Answer: The usual initial dose is 0.25 mcg once daily, which may be adjusted in increments of 0.25 mcg every 2 months based on serum calcium levels. Maintenance dose is typically 0.5 mcg to 1 mcg daily. Question: What monitoring is required during Alfacalcidol therapy? Answer: Serum calcium and phosphate levels should be monitored at monthly intervals or as necessary to prevent hypercalcemia. Question: Is Alfacalcidol safe during pregnancy and lactation? Answer: It should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary, as hypercalcemia may harm the fetus. Breastfeeding should be avoided as it may be excreted in human milk.