What is this medication?
DOXERCALCIFEROL (docks er kal SIF e role) treats an overactive parathyroid gland (hyperparathyroidism) in people with kidney disease. It works by lowering parathyroid hormone levels in your body, which can support bone health. It is a form of vitamin D.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Hectorol
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:
- Liver disease
- Too much calcium, phosphorus, or vitamin D in your blood
- An unusual or allergic reaction to doxercalciferol, vitamin D, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
This medication is injected into a muscle, or infused through a vein. It is usually given in a hospital or clinic setting.
If you get this medication at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give this medication. Use exactly as directed. Take your medication at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed.
It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or care team to get one.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medication?
Do not take this medication with any of the following:
- Burosumab
- Vitamin D
This medication may also interact with the following:
- Calcium supplements
- Digoxin
- Erythromycin
- Ketoconazole
- Magnesium supplements
- Phenobarbital
- Phenytoin
- Some antacids
- Thiazide diuretics
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular check-ups. You will need to have important lab work done while you are taking this medication.
You will need to be on a special diet while you are taking this medication. Do not take any non-prescription medications that have vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium, or calcium including antacids, unless your care team instructs you to. Extra supplements can cause side effects.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- High calcium level—increased thirst or amount of urine, nausea, vomiting, confusion, unusual weakness or fatigue, bone pain
- High phosphorus level—muscle pain or cramps, bone or joint pain, numbness and tingling around the mouth
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Metallic taste in mouth
- Nausea
- Vomiting
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.