Why is this medication prescribed?

Doxercalciferol is a synthetic form of vitamin D used in the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism, a condition commonly associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Doxercalciferol helps regulate calcium and phosphorus levels in the body, which can become imbalanced in individuals with CKD.

Doctors prescribe doxercalciferol injection to patients who have low levels of vitamin D or elevated parathyroid hormone levels due to kidney disease. By helping to regulate these levels, it can prevent complications such as bone diseases and abnormal calcium deposits.

How should this medicine be used?

Doxercalciferol injection is typically administered by a healthcare professional, either into a vein (intravenous) or into a muscle (intramuscular). The dosage and frequency of administration depend on the patient’s condition, laboratory values, and response to treatment, so it’s crucial to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider carefully.

Before administering the injection, the healthcare provider will assess the patient’s condition, including their vitamin D levels and parathyroid hormone levels. Based on this assessment, they will determine the appropriate dosage and administration schedule.

Patients should not self-administer doxercalciferol injection without proper training and guidance from a healthcare professional. It’s essential to adhere to the prescribed dosage and schedule to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and minimize the risk of side effects.

Additionally, patients should inform their healthcare provider about any other medications they are taking, as certain medications may interact with doxercalciferol. They should also report any side effects or concerns to their healthcare provider promptly.

Other uses for this medicine

While doxercalciferol injection is primarily used for the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease, it may also be prescribed for other conditions under the guidance of a healthcare professional. These alternative uses may include certain cases of hypocalcemia (low blood calcium levels) and osteoporosis.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using doxercalciferol injection, including:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have a history of hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels), vitamin D toxicity, or kidney stones.
• Allergies: If you are allergic to any ingredients in doxercalciferol injection, vitamin D, or other medications, inform your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss the risks and benefits of using doxercalciferol injection during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It’s essential to weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks to both the mother and the baby.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as certain medications may interact with doxercalciferol injection, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone levels is essential during treatment with doxercalciferol injection to ensure proper dosage adjustments and to monitor for any potential adverse effects.
• Overdose: Avoid taking more than the prescribed dosage of doxercalciferol injection, as overdose can lead to vitamin D toxicity, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, weakness, confusion, and kidney damage.
• Sun Exposure: While vitamin D is often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin” because the body produces it when exposed to sunlight, excessive sun exposure should be avoided, especially in individuals taking vitamin D supplements, to prevent sunburn and skin damage.
• Storage: Store doxercalciferol injection according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Keep it out of reach of children and away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about using doxercalciferol injection.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Calcium and Phosphorus Intake: Follow any dietary recommendations provided by your healthcare provider regarding calcium and phosphorus intake. They may advise you to limit or increase certain foods rich in these minerals, depending on your condition.
• Vitamin D Sources: Maintain a balanced diet that includes foods rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna), fortified dairy products, and fortified cereals. However, avoid excessive intake of vitamin D supplements without medical supervision.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Doxercalciferol Injection, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you are unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Doxercalciferol injection, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include:

• Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea and vomiting, especially when starting treatment.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect reported by some individuals using doxercalciferol injection.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy may occur, particularly if there are rapid changes in blood calcium levels.
• Fatigue: Some people may experience increased fatigue or weakness.
• High blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia): Doxercalciferol can increase blood calcium levels, which may lead to symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, and confusion.
• Low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia): While less common, excessively high doses or rapid increases in vitamin D levels can lead to low blood calcium levels, which may cause symptoms such as muscle cramps, twitching, numbness, and tingling in the extremities.
• High blood phosphorus levels (hyperphosphatemia): Elevated phosphorus levels may occur, particularly in individuals with kidney disease.
• Allergic reactions: In rare cases, individuals may experience allergic reactions to doxercalciferol injection, which may manifest as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Bone pain: Some individuals may experience bone pain, particularly if there are rapid changes in calcium and phosphorus levels.

It’s essential to report any unusual or bothersome symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. They can help manage side effects and adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Additionally, if you experience severe or concerning side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

Storage:

• Store Doxercalciferol Injection as directed by the manufacturer or healthcare provider.
• Typically, it should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not freeze the medication.
• Do not use Doxercalciferol Injection if it has expired or if the solution is discolored or contains particles.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired Doxercalciferol Injection properly according to local regulations or as instructed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Do not dispose of medications by flushing them down the toilet or pouring them down the drain unless specifically instructed to do so.
• Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance on the proper disposal of Doxercalciferol Injection.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an overdose or emergency, such as symptoms of hypercalcemia (elevated blood calcium levels), seek immediate medical attention.
• Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, weakness, confusion, increased thirst, frequent urination, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, and changes in heart rhythm.
• Be prepared to provide information about the dose of Doxercalciferol Injection taken and any other medications or supplements you are using.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider for regular monitoring of your condition and response to treatment.
• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are using Doxercalciferol Injection, including dentists and specialists.
• Follow dietary recommendations provided by your healthcare provider, especially regarding calcium and phosphorus intake.
• Do not change the dosage or stop using Doxercalciferol Injection without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Keep a list of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are using and share it with your healthcare provider.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Doxercalciferol Injection or your treatment plan, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about proper storage, disposal, and actions to take in case of emergency, you can help ensure the safe and effective use of Doxercalciferol Injection as prescribed by your healthcare provider.