Calcifediol
Generic name: calcifediol [ KAL-sif-e-DYE-ol ]
Brand names: Rayaldee, Calderol
Dosage form: oral capsule, extended release (30 mcg)
Drug class:Vitamins
What is calcifediol?
Calcifediol is a vitamin D3. Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and for the functioning of calcium in the body.
Calcifediol is used to treat secondary hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands) in adults who have stage 3 or 4 chronic kidney failure and low vitamin D levels. Calcifediol is not for people who are receiving dialysis.
Calcifediol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
heart problems; or
high levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether calcifediol will harm an unborn baby. However, having chronic kidney disease during pregnancy may cause complications such as miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, stillbirth, or eclampsia (dangerously high blood pressure that can lead to medical problems in both mother and baby). The benefit of treating kidney disease may outweigh any risks to the baby.
If you are breastfeeding, tell your doctor if you notice vomiting, constipation, weight loss, or seizures in the nursing baby.
How should I take calcifediol?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Take calcifediol at bedtime each day.
Swallow the extended-release capsule whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it.
You will need frequent medical tests.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Skip the missed dose and use your next dose at the regular time. Do not use two doses at one time.
