Why is this medication prescribed?

Doxercalciferol is prescribed primarily for the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This condition occurs when the parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone due to impaired kidney function. Doxercalciferol helps to regulate calcium and phosphorus levels in the body, thereby managing secondary hyperparathyroidism.

How should this medicine be used?

The dosage and administration of doxercalciferol can vary depending on the individual’s medical condition and response to treatment. It’s typically administered orally as a capsule or liquid solution. The dosage is usually determined by a healthcare professional based on factors such as the patient’s kidney function, blood calcium levels, and the severity of their hyperparathyroidism.

It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Doxercalciferol should be taken exactly as directed, and any questions or concerns regarding its use should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Additionally, regular monitoring of calcium and phosphorus levels may be necessary during treatment with doxercalciferol to ensure its effectiveness and safety.

Other uses for this medicine

While doxercalciferol is primarily prescribed for the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease, it may also be used off-label or in certain other conditions. Some potential off-label uses include managing hyperparathyroidism in patients with vitamin D deficiency, hypoparathyroidism, and certain bone disorders.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using doxercalciferol to ensure its safe and effective use:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to doxercalciferol or any other medications.
• Medical History: Provide a comprehensive medical history to your healthcare provider, including any past or present medical conditions, especially kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, or any conditions affecting calcium metabolism.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using doxercalciferol with your healthcare provider. It’s essential to weigh the benefits against the potential risks to both the mother and the fetus or infant.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all prescription, non-prescription, and herbal medications you are taking, as well as any dietary supplements. Some medications or supplements may interact with doxercalciferol, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone levels may be necessary during treatment with doxercalciferol to ensure proper dosage adjustment and to detect any potential complications.
• Overdose: Avoid taking more than the prescribed dose of doxercalciferol, as overdose can lead to elevated calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia), which can cause serious complications such as kidney stones, gastrointestinal symptoms, and cardiac arrhythmias.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of doxercalciferol, including headache, nausea, vomiting, weakness, dry mouth, constipation, and dizziness. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any severe or persistent side effects.
• Dietary Considerations: Follow any dietary recommendations provided by your healthcare provider, as certain foods high in calcium or phosphorus may need to be limited while taking doxercalciferol.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of doxercalciferol, and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about its use or potential side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Your doctor may recommend a specific diet while taking doxercalciferol. This might include restrictions on foods high in calcium or phosphorus, as they can interfere with the medication’s effectiveness or exacerbate certain conditions.
• Foods rich in calcium, such as dairy products, fortified cereals, and green leafy vegetables, should be consumed in moderation and as per your doctor’s advice.
• Your healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring of your blood calcium and phosphorus levels, which can guide dietary adjustments.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you miss a dose of doxercalciferol, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one, as it can increase the risk of side effects.
• If you’re unsure about what to do, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

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

• Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach.
• Vomiting: The act of expelling contents of the stomach through the mouth.
• Headache: A continuous pain in the head.
• Dizziness: A sensation of spinning or lightheadedness.
• Weakness: Lack of physical or muscle strength.
• Dry mouth: A lack of saliva in the mouth, which can cause discomfort.
• Constipation: Difficulty in passing stools, often associated with hardened feces.
• Bone pain: Discomfort or ache in the bones.
• Muscle pain: Discomfort or ache in the muscles.
• Increased thirst: Feeling the need to drink more fluids than usual.

These side effects are usually mild and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, or if you experience any other unusual or severe symptoms, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider promptly.

In rare cases, doxercalciferol may cause more serious side effects, such as:

• High blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia): This can lead to symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, confusion, and even cardiac arrhythmias.
• Allergic reactions: Rarely, doxercalciferol can cause allergic reactions, including rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.

It’s important to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting doxercalciferol, and to report any new or worsening symptoms during treatment.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Store doxercalciferol at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not store doxercalciferol in the bathroom, as moisture and humidity can affect its stability.
• If you have unused or expired doxercalciferol, follow local regulations or guidelines for medication disposal. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you suspect an overdose of doxercalciferol, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, weakness, confusion, increased thirst, frequent urination, abdominal pain, muscle pain, and potentially severe complications such as hypercalcemia.
• Provide healthcare professionals with as much information as possible about the medication ingested, including the dosage and timing.

What other information should I know?

• Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and follow-up.
• Inform any other healthcare providers, including dentists and specialists, that you are taking doxercalciferol.
• Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (e.g., tanning beds) while taking doxercalciferol, as it may increase the risk of sunburn.
• Follow any additional instructions provided by your healthcare provider, including dietary recommendations and lifestyle modifications to support overall health and well-being.

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 as prescribed by your healthcare provider.