Patient/caregiver was educated on side effects of using Calcitriol as follows:
Genitourinary side-effects
- Calcitriol use can result in increased intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the food sources and increased reabsorption of calcium in the kidneys, thus helping to elevate and restore optimal concentrations of serum calcium and phosphorus. Continued calcitriol use can result in further elevation of serum calcium and phosphorus and results in some side-effects as follows.
- Calcitriol use, secondary to mildly elevated calcium levels in the blood, can result in increased frequency of urination, thus leading to increased fluid loss. This can contribute to the side-effects of dry mouth and constipation with calcitriol. Compliance with fluid resuscitation measures can help towards relief from fluid loss, other associated side-effects of fluid loss, and prevent dehydration from developing. Report any symptoms of uncontrolled frequency of urination, excessive fluid loss, and worsening dehydration to your physician for any revision on your dose of calcitriol to be considered.
- Continued calcitriol use, secondary to very highly elevated calcium levels in the blood, can also contribute to development of calcium stones in the kidneys, development of abdominal/flank pain, blockage in the urine flow, retention of urine and recurrent urinary tract infections. Report to your physician immediately regarding any of the above symptoms of calcium stone deposition in the kidneys, for a change in the dose of calcitriol or plan of care to be considered.
Gastrointestinal side-effects
- Calcitriol use can result in common general constitutional symptoms such as, nausea and vomiting, especially when taken on empty stomach. Taking dose of calcitriol with a glass of water, after having some food or a snack can help avoid having unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms with the medication. Continued calcitriol use can also result in reduced appetite levels and compromise intake.
- Calcitriol use, secondary to mild elevation of blood calcium levels, can also induce extreme dry mouth and constipation. Sucking on a sugar free hard candy can help with symptomatic relief of dry mouth. Proper hydration measures and compliance with daily fluid intake recommendations can help with relief from constipation. If you experience any further bothersome constipation, report it to your physician for a recommendation on laxative/stool softener use. Observing compliance with fiber intake recommendations in the diet can also help with preventing episodes of constipation with the medication.
