This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Calcium and Alfacalcidol was approved by US Food and drug administration for the indication to treat vitamin D deficiency, renal osteodystrophy, hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, hypocalcemia, rickets, or osteomalacia which belongs to the group of medicines called dietary supplements.

Mechanism of Action of undefined

Alfacalcidol and calcium work together to address vitamin D and calcium deficits, which are essential for preserving the best possible bone health. By boosting the expression of calcium-binding proteins, alfacalcidol, a synthetic version of vitamin D, helps the small intestine absorb calcium from food. Osteoporosis and osteomalacia are prevented by this mechanism, which is necessary for bone mineralization. Alfacalcidol helps maintain calcium homeostasis by inhibiting the secretion of parathyroid hormone, which lowers bone loss and increases calcium reabsorption by the kidneys. Furthermore, this promotes renal function, limiting the amount of calcium lost in the urine.

Uses of undefined

Calcium and alfacalcidol is used to treat Calcium and vitamin D deficiency, Renal osteodystrophy, Hyper and hypoparathyroidism and Rickets and Osteomalacia.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Calcium and alfacalcidol is available in oral tablet dosage form at a dose of 500mg. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. 

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

It is not recommended to take this medication if you are allergic to the active substance Calcium and alfacalcidol and its components. Do not take more than prescribed since overdose may cause hypercalcemia.Before taking supplements, people who are pregnant or nursing should speak with their doctor because it is not fully proven if high-dose calcium and alfacalcidol are safe to take during these times.Recognize the signs of vitamin D intoxication, which can include dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Immediately get medical help if you encounter these symptoms. Tell your physician about all the medications you have been taking recently before starting treatment.

Precautions

 Before taking Calcium and alfacalcidol, you must notify your doctor about any medical conditions and other conditions including pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is not recommended to consume alcohol as it may reduce the absorption of this supplement. Avoid handling machines or driving, if  this tablet causes dizziness and unusual tiredness. It is really important to be safe, so make sure you discuss any concerns you may have with your healthcare professional.

Side Effects

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all drugs cause side effects, not everyone gets them. Common side effects may include stomach pain, skin rash diarrhea , constipation and itching. Keep an eye out for these signs and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of them while receiving therapy.

Word Of Advice

Avoid intake of caffeine and soft drinks because this may decrease calcium absorption. If you forgot to take the tablet, simply take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. The best sources of calcium are dairy products like milk, yoghurt, cheese and green leafy vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, and spinach. Your doctor may advise you to take certain blood tests during the treatment to monitor any unwanted side effects. Ensure adequate sun exposure as sunlight is the natural source of vitamin D. Maintain adequate hydration as it reduces the risk of constipation.

Frequently Asked Question

References

1. KD Tripathi. Drugs affecting calcium balance. Essentials of medical pharmacology. 8th edition. 2019. Page – 361, 362, 368.

2. Thawee Songpatanasilp, La-Or Chailurkit, Akekachai Nichachotsalid, Manoj Chantarasorn. Combination of alfacalcidol with calcium can improve quadriceps muscle strength in elderly ambulatory Thai women who have hypovitaminosis D: a randomised controlled trial. Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand. [Revised in September 2009] [Accessed on June 2023] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19894330/ 

3. LEO Pharma. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in February 2022] [Accessed on June 2023] https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.12653.pdf 

4. Biokirch GmbH. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in August 2016] [Accessed on June 2023] https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1295.pdf  

Disclaimer

 The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.