For the management of hypocalcemia in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis for renal failure, Renal osteodystrophy, and osteomalacia secondary to vitamin D deficiency due to intestinal malabsorption.

Calcitriol, an active form of vitamin D(3) or cholecalciferol, stimulates calcium transport in the intestines, its resorption in bones and tubular reabsorption in the kidney. It also suppresses the parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion and synthesis.

Duration of action: 3-5 days; Elimination Half Life: 5 h to 8 h; pediatrics: 27.4 h (mean); hemodialysis patients: 21.9 h. Calcitriol and its metabolites are excreted primarily via the bile, with some renal elimination.

Hypercalcemia or evidence of vitamin D toxicity.

C by manufacturer but ranked as A by Briggs or D if used in dose above recommended daily allowances

Probably safe; minimal amount of calcitriol found in milk, it is important to monitor calcium level when long- term use of this drug.

Hypercalcemia; oral form may cause hypersensitivity reactions (pruritus, rash, urticaria, erythema multiforme); Injectable form may cause injection site reactions.

in chronic renal failure: oral, 0.25mcg/day (may require 0.5-1 mcg/day), IV: 0.5-3 mcg, 3 times/week. Hypoparathyroidism: 0.5-2 mcg/day PO, Vitamin D-dependent rickets: 1 mcg/day.