Hectorol (Oral)
Questions | Reviews
giving hectorol
How is Hectorol to be given for the diaysis patient. We have several different theories. One is post treatment so it does not go through the dilayzer and the other is during the treatment. Thank you for your help.
by Kelly in Minnesota, 11/30/2007
Hectorol (Oral) Drug and Prescription Information
Hectorol (Oral)
Hectorol (Oral) Medication Classification
DOXERCALCIFEROL (By mouth)
Hectorol (Oral) Brandname
Hectorol
Hectorol (Oral) is used for the Treatment
Doxercalciferol (dox-er-kal-SIF-er-ol) Lowers high levels of parathyroid hormone in the body in kidney dialysis patients. Doxercalciferol is a form of vitamin D.
When To Not Use Hectorol (Oral)
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to doxercalciferol or vitamin D, or if you have recently had high blood calcium levels.
How Should You Use Hectorol (Oral)
Capsule
- Your doctor will tell you how much to use and how often. You will usually use this medicine at the time you have dialysis. If a dose is missed:
- This medicine must be used on a regular schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor or dialysis unit for instructions.
Proper Hectorol (Oral) Storage
Store Hectorol (Oral) at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture unless otherwise stated by manufacturer's instructions or labelling. Keep Hectorol (Oral) and all medications out of the reach of children.
What To Avoid While Using Hectorol (Oral)
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are using cholestyramine (Questran®), mineral oil, phenobarbital (Donnatal®), phenytoin (Dilantin®), glutethimide (Doriden®), or digitalis drugs such as digoxin (Lanoxin®) or digitoxin (Crystodigin®).
- Do not use calcium supplements or any other type of vitamin D without first asking your doctor.
- Avoid antacids that contain magnesium (such as Maalox® and Mylanta®) while using this medicine.
- Follow the diet plan your doctor gives to you.
Hectorol (Oral) Warnings
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you have liver disease or if you have a history of high levels of phosphate or calcium in your blood.
Hectorol (Oral) Side Effects
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
- Bone or muscle pain
- Dry mouth, metallic taste in mouth
- Irregular heartbeat
- Loss of appetite, weight loss
- Nausea, vomiting, constipation
- Unusual weakness, tiredness
- Unexplained headache If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
- Difficult breathing
- Swelling of the hands or feet
- Weight gain