Paricalcitol
Uses of Paricalcitol
Paricalcitol is commonly used to treat and prevent secondary hyperparathyroidism due to chronic kidney disease.
How Paricalcitol Works
Paricalcitol is a synthetic vit D analogue of calcitriol which activates vitamin D receptors in the kidneys, bones and intestine as well as the calcium sensing receptor in parathyroid gland. The PTH levels is reduced by inhibiting PTH synthesis and secretion, and improves calcium and phosphate level in metabolic bone disease.
Side Effects of Paricalcitol
Hypercalcaemia, hypercalciuria and hyperphosphatemia, Dizziness, Palpitations, Dyspepsia, Taste disturbance, Dry mouth, Nausea, Vomiting, Constipation, Diarrhea, Abdominal discomfort, Increased blood creatinine, Breast tenderness, Hypoparathyroidism, Musculoskeletal pain, Rash, Malaise, Pyrexia.
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Paricalcitol should be used with caution in patients with mild to moderate kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Paricalcitol may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it. Use of Paricalcitol in patients with severe kidney disease is unknown.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Paricalcitol especially in individuals with alcoholism. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Paricalcitol may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. The benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Driving Generally Safe
Paricalcitol cause minimal to no side effects which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive
Liver Limited Data
Paricalcitol should be used with caution in patients with mild to moderate liver disease. Dose adjustment of Paricalcitol is not needed. Please consult your doctor before using it. Use of Paricalcitol in patients with severe kidney disease is unknown.
Lactation Limited Data
Paricalcitol is excreted into breast milk of mammals but the excretion into human breast milk and its adverse effect on the feeding baby is inconclusive. The decision to discontinue breastfeeding or withhold medication is to be made after consulting your doctor.
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
