Calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol)
Brands: Rocaltrol, Calcijex
Calcitriol is a vitamin D analog used to manage calcium levels in pets, particularly for kidney disease.
Used for
- chronic kidney disease
- secondary hyperparathyroidism
- hypocalcemia
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- once daily
- Duration
- varies based on condition and response
- Storage
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 2.5 to 3.5 ng/kg orally once daily
dog
- Large dogs
- 2 to 3 ng/kg orally once daily
- Small dogs
- 0.5 to 1 ng/kg orally once daily
- Medium dogs
- 1 to 2 ng/kg orally once daily
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Calcitriol
Side effects
Common
- increased thirst
- increased urination
Rare
- loss of appetite
Severe
- hypercalcemia
Do not use when
- pre-existing hypercalcemia
- vitamin D toxicity
Interacts with
- corticosteroids
- thiazide diuretics
Warnings
- Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
- Regular blood tests are necessary
Calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol) questions
What is Calcitriol used for in pets?
Calcitriol is used to manage calcium and phosphorus levels, primarily in pets with kidney disease.
How is Calcitriol administered?
It is given orally, either as a capsule or liquid.
Can Calcitriol cause side effects?
Yes, common side effects include increased thirst and urination. Severe side effects include hypercalcemia.
Is a prescription required for Calcitriol?
Yes, Calcitriol is a prescription medication.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for the next dose.
Full drug detail
Overview
Calcitriol, also known as 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol, is a potent form of vitamin D used in veterinary medicine to manage calcium and phosphorus metabolism in pets. It is particularly beneficial for animals with chronic kidney disease and certain parathyroid disorders.
How It Works
Calcitriol functions by enhancing the absorption of calcium and phosphate in the gut, promoting bone mineralization, and reducing parathyroid hormone levels. This helps maintain appropriate calcium balance in pets, which is crucial for many physiological processes.
Uses & Indications
Calcitriol is primarily used to treat conditions related to abnormal calcium and phosphorus metabolism, including:
- Chronic kidney disease
- Secondary hyperparathyroidism
- Hypocalcemia
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 0.5 to 1 ng/kg orally once daily
- Medium Dogs: 1 to 2 ng/kg orally once daily
- Large Dogs: 2 to 3 ng/kg orally once daily
Cats
- Standard Dosage: 2.5 to 3.5 ng/kg orally once daily
Administration
Calcitriol is administered orally, typically in capsule or liquid form. It’s important to follow the veterinarian’s instructions regarding dosage and duration.
Side Effects
Common
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
Rare
- Loss of appetite
Severe
- Hypercalcemia (requires immediate veterinary attention)
Precautions & Warnings
- Regular monitoring of blood calcium levels is essential to avoid complications.
- Use with caution in pets with a history of hypercalcemia or hyperphosphatemia.
Drug Interactions
- Corticosteroids: May reduce the effects of calcitriol.
- Thiazide diuretics: Increased risk of hypercalcemia.
Storage
Store calcitriol at room temperature, away from moisture and light, and out of reach of children and pets.
FAQ
-
What is Calcitriol used for in pets? Calcitriol is used to manage calcium and phosphorus levels, primarily in pets with kidney disease.
-
How is Calcitriol administered? It is given orally, either as a capsule or liquid.
-
Can Calcitriol cause side effects? Yes, common side effects include increased thirst and urination. Severe side effects include hypercalcemia.
-
Is a prescription required for Calcitriol? Yes, Calcitriol is a prescription medication.
-
What should I do if I miss a dose? Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for the next dose.
Contraindications
- Pre-existing hypercalcemia
- Vitamin D toxicity
Warnings
- Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
- Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor treatment efficacy and safety.