Rocaltrol

What is it?

A vitamin D analogue available as capsules in 2 strengths; white/ red, containing 0.25µg of calcitriol and red, containing 0.5µg of calcitriol.

Medical Uses

In cases of renal osteodystrophy (bone development defect due to kidney disorder affecting calcium and phosphorus metabolism), to correct phosphate and calcium metabolism, post-menopausal osteoporosis.

Dosage

Adults, osteodystrophy, 0.25µg each day or every second day, increasing, if required, at 2 to 4 week intervals by 0.25µg. Usual maintenance dose is in order of 0.5 to 1µg each day. Blood calcium and creatinine levels must be monitored twice weekly and drug may need to be withdrawn if rise too high. Osteoporosis, women, 0.25µg twice each day.

Special Care

Pregnancy, do not use other vitamin D preparations. Check serum calcium levels.

Avoid Use

Children, high blood calcium levels, metastatic calcification (due to spread of malignancy).

Known Side Effects

Hypercalciuria (high calcium levels in urine), hypercalcaemia (high calcium levels in blood).

Manufacturer

Roche.