Medication Information Leaflet

What is this medication for?

Alfacalcidol is a type of vitamin D, which increases the absorption of calcium. Additionally, it improves the parathyroid function and treats certain bone problems in patients with a history of chronic kidney disease by managing the levels of calcium and phosphate in the body. The parathyroid gland function is important for managing bone health. 

How should I take or use this medication?

• Take this medication as instructed by your healthcare professional.
• Do not stop taking your medication unless as advised by your healthcare professional.
• You may take this medication with or without food. 
• Do not shake the bottle of Alfacalcidol oral drops before administration.
• The injectable form of Alfacalcidol is given through the veins.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose. 

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients found in the  medication.
• You are taking any other medications, supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies. 
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• You have high calcium levels, phosphate levels  or too much vitamin D in your body.

It is important to adhere to blood tests as advised by your healthcare professional to ensure your calcium levels are within range.

What are some common side effects of this medication?

• Headache
• Nausea
• Stomach upset

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

As this medication increases the absorption of calcium, you may develop high calcium levels. It is important that you keep up with any blood tests recommended by your healthcare professional, and  be aware of the possible symptoms of high calcium levels such as:

• Feeling weak or having pain in your muscles or bones
• Confusion or headaches
• Feeling tired or sick
• Headache
• Needing to pass urine more often
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Feeling thirsty

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

NA

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children. 

The oral liquid drops and injectable formulation have to be stored in the refrigerator (2^oC to 8^oC ). After opening, you should discard the oral drops after 4 months. 

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.

Disclaimer

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on November 2023