Paricalcitol

Generic name: paricalcitol (oral/injection) [ PAR-i-KAL-si-tol ]
Brand name: Zemplar
Dosage forms: intravenous solution (2 mcg/mL; 5 mcg/mL); oral capsule (1 mcg; 2 mcg; 4 mcg)
Drug class:Vitamins

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Nov 10, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is paricalcitol?

Paricalcitol is a synthetic (man-made) form of vitamin D. Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and for the functioning of calcium in the body.

Paricalcitol is used to help maintain healthy levels of parathyroid hormone in people with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis.

Paricalcitol oral is for use in adults and children at least 10 years old.

Paricalcitol injection is for use in adults and children at least 5 years old.

Paricalcitol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

You should not use paricalcitol if you have high levels of calcium or vitamin D in your blood.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use paricalcitol if you are allergic to it, or if you have high levels of vitamin D or calcium in your body.

You should not be treated with paricalcitol injection if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• high blood pressure;

• liver disease; or

• an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you breastfeed while receiving paricalcitol injection, watch for signs of hypercalcemia in your baby (such as feeding problems, vomiting, constipation, or seizure).

How should I use paricalcitol?

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.

Paricalcitol is usually given every other day or 3 times per week. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Paricalcitol oral is taken by mouth.

You may take paricalcitol oral with or without food.

Paricalcitol injection is given as an infusion into a vein during dialysis. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swelling when paricalcitol is injected.

Your blood will need to be tested often. Your doses may be delayed based on the results.

Even if you have no symptoms, tests can help your doctor determine if paricalcitol is effective.

You may need to follow a special diet wh...