Rocaltrol is used to by both men and women who are at risk of osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become brittle and break easily. It works by increasing the body's ability to absorb Vitamin D and helping the distribution of calcium around the body.
Rocaltrol sometimes used by kidney dialysis patients to treat low blood calcium levels. Rocaltrol contains Calcitriol which occurs naturally in the body and is a biologically active form of Vitamin D. It improves absorption of calcium from the intestine, helping to form healthy bones and reduce bone damage.
While you are taking Rocaltrol, your doctor may want you to follow a special diet or take calcium supplements. Be sure to get enough fluids and avoid dehydration while taking Rocaltrol. You should not take additional doses of vitamin D while taking this drug.
Because of improved calcium absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, some patients on Rocaltrol may be maintained on a lower calcium intake. During the beginning treatments with Rocaltrol, serum calcium levels should be checked at least twice weekly. If you have had a history of kidney, heart, or blood disease then you need to talk to your doctor about whether this medication is right for you.
Before taking calcitriol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic vitamin D products, or if you have any other allergies.
Your doctor will monitor your calcium levels while you are taking rocaltrol because excessive calcium levels can be very dangerous. While taking this drug, you should get an adequate daily intake of calcium, at least 600 milligrams a day, either from foods, like milk and other dairy products or a calcium supplement. Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and for the functioning of calcium in the body.
