Alfacalcidol is an analogue of Vitamin D, which plays an essential function in calcium absorption and bone growth. Alfacalcidol helps you absorb more calcium and phosphorus which are minerals needed by the body to build strong bones and teeth. It is used to treat various diseases associated with calcium levels in your body, such as hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism (abnormal levels of parathyroid hormone), renal osteodystrophy (bone disease caused by kidney problems), certain types of rickets and osteomalacia (softening of bones) and neonatal hypocalcemia (low calcium levels in the blood in newborn babies).
Alfacalcidol is available as capsules or oral drops, which are taken by mouth. It should be taken with food. If you are taking the capsule, swallow it whole with a glass of water. If you are taking the oral drops, shake the bottle well before you take it to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the dropper provided to measure the prescribed dose.
Hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, renal osteodystrophy, rickets, or osteomalacia
Adult
Initially 1 mcg daily, adjust subsequent doses according to individual responses and conditions. Doses are increased in increments of 0.25-0.5 mcg daily. Usual maintenance dose is 0.25-1 mcg daily. Dose may be discontinued if hypercalcaemia occurs.
Elderly
Initially 0.5 mcg daily, adjust subsequent doses according to individual responses and conditions. Doses are increased in increments of 0.25-0.5 mcg daily. Usual maintenance dose is 0.25-1 mcg daily. Dose may be discontinued if hypercalcaemia occurs.
Child over 1 month
20 kg and above: Initially 1 mcg daily, adjust subsequent doses according to individual responses and conditions. Doses are increased in increments of 0.25-0.5 mcg daily. Usual maintenance dose is 0.25-1 mcg daily. Dose may be discontinued if hypercalcaemia occurs.
Less than 20 kg: Initially 0.05 mcg per kg body weight daily.
Neonates and infants
Initially 0.05-0.1 mcg per kg body weight daily.
Neonatal hypocalcemia
Neonates and infants
Initially 0.05-0.1 mcg per kg body weight daily. May require up to 2 mcg/kg in severe cases.
Common side effects of Alfacalcidol include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, constipation, stomach pain or discomfort, and skin rash or itching.
Common dosing schedule:
Alfacalcidol is taken at mealtime. Try to take it at the same time each day.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Alfacalcidol may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Alfacalcidol is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Alfacalcidol in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
Healthy Matters is Hong Kong’s leading health resource. Our mission is to help you make better health decisions and take control of your health.
Our team of experts is committed to producing reliable health content that is accurate, engaging and relevant, to cover your health & wellness journey from prevention to treatment.
Whether you are looking for trusted information on health conditions, wellbeing or looking for the right doctor or service in Hong Kong, we’re here to help!
Your health matters. Begin your health journey with Healthy Matters today!