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Rocaltrol

Chinese name:

羅鈣全

Medically reviewed by

Kenny Cheuk Yin Cheung, Pharmacist

Last Updated: 2022-04-08

What is Rocaltrol?

Rocaltrol is a brand medication that contains Calcitriol, which is an analogue of Vitamin D2, which plays an essential function in calcium absorption and bone growth. It is used to treat various diseases associated with abnormal calcium levels in your body, such as problems of the parathyroid glands and osteoporosis (thinning and weakening of bones) in women after menopause.

How to use it?

Rocaltrol is available as capsules. It can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may help to reduce stomach discomfort. Swallow it whole and do not crush, chew, or break the capsule.

For secondary hyperparathyroidism in chronic kidney disease
Adult
Initially 0.25mcg daily, which may be increased to 0.5 mcg daily if necessary.

For postmenopausal osteoporosis
Adult
Take 0.25mcg twice daily.

For renal osteodystrophy
Adult
Initially 0.25 mcg daily or every other day. May be increased by 0.25 mcg at 2-4 week intervals if necessary. Usual dosage range is 0.5-1 mcg daily.

For hypoparathyroidism
Adult
Initially 0.25 mcg daily given in the morning, which may increase at 2-4 week intervals if necessary.

What are the side effects of Rocaltrol?

Common side effects of Rocaltrol include headache, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, metallic taste, constipation, stomach pain, indigestion, decreased appetite, weight loss, muscle pain, and numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and feet.

Who should not take Rocaltrol?

People allergic to Rocaltrol or any component of the formulation
Anyone who has an increased calcium level in blood
Anyone who has metastatic calcification
Patients with Vitamin D toxicity

Pharmacist Tips:

Avoid taking other supplements that contain Calcium or Vitamin D.
Rocaltrol must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking Rocaltrol even when you feel well.
Your doctor may require you to have routine blood tests when taking this medicine.

Common dosing schedule:
Rocaltrol can be taken with or without food.

This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.

Some common medications Rocaltrol may interact with:

Anticonvulsants, e.g. Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Sodium Valproate
Thiazide diuretics, e.g. Hydrochlorothiazide
Bile acid sequestrants, e.g. Cholestyramine
Digoxin
Magnesium-containing antacids
Vitamin D supplements
Calcium supplements

Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.

Where to buy Rocaltrol in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Rocaltrol 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 Rocaltrol 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.

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