Generic Rocaltrol

Rocaltrol is a form of synthetically produced vitamin D. It is often prescribed for patients with low vitamin D levels due to treatments and illnesses, such as chronic renal dialysis and hypoparathyroidism. Vitamin D is essential for allowing the body to absorb calcium from the stomach into the blood stream.

Some patients who are experiencing kidney failure but are not receiving dialysis can benefit from Rocaltrol for the treatment of secondary hypoparathyroidism.

Too much calcium in the body can be detrimental. Some patients may experience this, which is presented via symptoms such as the taste of metal in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, headaches, constipation, dry mouth, weakness, muscle pain, bone pain, an increase in thirst, and increase in urination, especially at night, itching, or a loss of appetite. Antacids, vitamin supplements, and mineral supplements can add to the calcium in the body and should not be taken without the consent of a physician.

This medication is not appropriate for patients with high levels of calcium or vitamin D already in the body or for patients who rely consistently on antacids which contain magnesium. Blood tests should be performed to ensure proper levels of calcium and vitamin D. Patients who take Digoxin may or may not be able to take Rocaltrol. If it can be tolerated, the patient will require careful monitoring, special dosing, and precautions.

The American Food and Drug Administration rated Rocaltrol a pregnancy risk category C, meaning that it has not been determined whether or not this medication will cause harm to an unborn baby.

Some physicians prescribe calcium supplementation in conjunction with Rocaltrol. This should only be done at the physician’s discretion; patients should not add their own supplementation to the regimen.

Each dose should be taken as prescribed. If a dose of Rocaltrol is missed, the patient should take the dose as soon as possible. The missed dose should be skipped, however, if it is nearing time for the next dose. Patients should refrain from ever taking extra doses for any reason. Doing so may lead to an overdose.

An overdose of Rocaltrol requires medical intervention without delay. Patients who are experiencing the effects of too much medication are likely to present with symptoms such as dry mouth, vomiting, headache, the taste of metal in the mouth, weakness, constipation, abdominal pain, irregular heart rate, or nausea.

Some patients may experience side effects from taking Rocaltrol, especially in the first few weeks. Sever side effects can be life threatening and require immediate medical assistance. Symptoms of life threatening side effects include allergic reactions, abdominal pain, and irregular heart rhythm. Allergic reactions present with symptoms which include breathing difficulties, hives, and swelling involving the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat.

Most side effects pose no health risk and are considered moderately to mildly annoying. Reporting them to the prescribing physician can often help determine the correct dose. Mild side effects include nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, weakness, headaches, the taste of metal in the mouth, muscle pain, bone discomfort, feeling thirsty, an increase in urination especially during the night, itching, and loss of appetite and can indicate that the dose is too high, resulting in an over abundance of calcium in the body.

Rocaltrol may interact with certain medications. Patients should always request the physician’s opinion before starting any new over the counter medicine, prescription medicine, herbal remedy, or vitamin or mineral supplement. Digoxin, mineral oil, orlistat, antacids containing magnesium, thiazide diuretics, and cholestyramine are all known to cause interactions with Rocaltrol.