DOXERCALCIFEROL - INJECTION

DOXERCALCIFEROL - INJECTION

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (DOX-er-kal-SIF-er-ol)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Hectorol

GENERIC NAME(S): doxercalciferol

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat people with serious kidney disease on dialysis who have high levels of a certain substance (parathyroid hormone-PTH), which your body normally makes. High PTH levels affect the balance of other minerals in your body (calcium and phosphorus) and may cause weak bones. Doxercalciferol is a form of vitamin D. It works by decreasing PTH levels and increasing calcium/phosphorus levels in the body.


How to use DOXERCALCIFEROL - INJECTION

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein as directed by your doctor, usually 3 times a week (such as Monday, Wednesday, Friday) at the end of dialysis. The dosage is based on your medical condition, laboratory tests, and response to treatment. Your doctor may adjust your dose or temporarily stop this drug based on laboratory test results (such as PTH, calcium, and phosphorus levels). If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional and the product package. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely. It is very important to follow the diet recommended by your doctor to get the most benefit from this medication and to prevent serious side effects. Do not take more than 2 grams of calcium a day while you are taking this medication. Sources of calcium include your diet, phosphate binders, or calcium supplements. If you have any questions about how much calcium you take in a day, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Do not take other supplements/vitamins (such as vitamin D) unless otherwise directed by your doctor. (See also Drug Interactions section.)

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, upset stomach, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and tiredness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: bone/joint/muscle pain, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes (such as drowsiness, disturbed/irrational thoughts or beliefs), metallic taste in mouth, weakness, unexplained weight gain or loss. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking doxercalciferol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart problems (such as irregular heartbeat), high calcium blood levels (hypercalcemia), high phosphate blood levels (hyperphosphatemia), liver disease. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. However, similar drugs pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Check the labels on all your medicines (such as antacids, laxatives, vitamins/nutritional supplements) because they may contain calcium, magnesium, phosphate, or vitamin D. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: metallic taste in the mouth, irregular heartbeat, severe mental/mood changes, seizures.

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Faq for DOXERCALCIFEROL - INJECTION

Doxercalciferol injection is a prescription medication used to treat a certain type of bone disease in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Doxercalciferol is a synthetic form of vitamin D that helps the body to properly absorb and utilize calcium and phosphorus. It helps regulate the levels of these minerals in the body, which is essential for healthy bones.

Doxercalciferol injection is primarily used to treat secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease. It is also sometimes used to treat abnormally high levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) caused by conditions like hypoparathyroidism or pseudohypoparathyroidism.

Doxercalciferol is given as an injection into a muscle (intramuscular injection) or a vein (intravenous injection). The route of administration will depend on the specific condition being treated and the healthcare provider's instructions.

Dosage of Doxercalciferol injection is highly individualized and prescribed by a healthcare professional based on factors such as the patient's age, weight, other medications being taken, and the severity of the condition being treated. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and schedule exactly as directed.

Common side effects of Doxercalciferol injection include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, headache, dizziness, and dry mouth. Serious side effects may include high calcium levels, allergic reactions, and abnormal heart rhythm. It is important to contact a healthcare provider if any severe side effects occur.

Yes, Doxercalciferol injection can interact with certain medications, including medicines that lower cholesterol levels (statins), antacids, and certain seizure medications. It is important to inform the healthcare provider about all medications and supplements being taken to avoid potential interactions.

Doxercalciferol injection should not be used by individuals who have high levels of calcium or vitamin D, are allergic to ingredients in the medication, or have an abnormal sensitivity to vitamin D.

Doxercalciferol injection should be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. It is important to discuss the potential risks with a healthcare provider before using this medication.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.