Do you suffer from kidney disease? If so, your doctor may have talked to you about the functioning of your parathyroid gland. Doxercalciferol is a special injection that is given to treat a condition that occurs when this gland becomes overactive. Although the name may sound a bit strange, today we will talk simply and clearly about what it does and what you should be careful about when using it.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this is a form of vitamin D. In people with kidney disease, the parathyroid glands sometimes start to work too much. Think of it like a little switch that's always on. We medically call this hyperparathyroidism.
This medicine works by controlling the levels of parathyroid hormone, which is secreted by an overactive gland. When this hormone level is controlled, the levels of calcium and phosphorus in your blood are balanced. This helps to maintain the health of your bones. Because when parathyroid hormone levels increase, bones can become weak.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important for your doctor to know your complete health history before prescribing this medication. So if any of the following apply to you, be sure to tell them about it.
- If you have any liver disease .
- If your doctor has told you that your blood calcium, phosphorus, or vitamin D levels are already too high .
- If you have an allergic reaction to doxercalciferol, vitamin D, other medications, foods, preservatives, or dyes.
- If you are pregnant, or trying to get pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother.
It is very important for your safety to talk to the doctor without hiding this information.
How do you use this medicine?
This vaccine is usually given to you in a hospital or clinic. It is injected into either a vein or a muscle. It is often given at the same time as dialysis.
You may need to use this at home. If so, a nurse or doctor will teach you how to prepare and inject it properly. Use it exactly as directed, only at the prescribed times. Never take more than the prescribed dose.
Especially remember!
- Needles and syringes: Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. Instead, put them in a special sharps container. If you don't have one, ask your doctor or clinic for one.
- If given to children: Children may need special care when giving this medicine, so discuss this carefully with your child's doctor.
- If you overdose: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the nearest Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU).
- Do not share: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Some medications can interact with this vaccine and cause problems, so it is very important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
| Things that may interact with this medicine | |
|---|---|
| Do not take this with the following medications: | |
| Burosumab | Other types of Vitamin D or supplements |
| Problems may also occur with the following (tell your doctor): | |
| Calcium supplements | Digoxin |
| Erythromycin | Ketoconazole |
| Magnesium supplements or antacids | Phenobarbital |
| Phenytoin | Some diuretics (Thiazide diuretics) |
This list is not all-inclusive. So tell your doctor about all the medications, herbs, and supplements you take. Be sure to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Other things to consider when taking the medicine
- Regular checkups: Don't miss your scheduled doctor appointments. While taking this medication, you will need to have some important lab work done to check your blood levels of calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone. This is how your doctor will determine if your dosage is right for you.
- Special diet: You may be told to follow a special diet while taking this medicine. You may be told to limit foods high in phosphorus (such as milk, cheese, beans, nuts). Do not take any over-the-counter medications containing vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium, or calcium (including some antacids for heartburn) without your doctor's advice.
What are the possible side effects?
As with any medication, there is a small chance of side effects. Some of them should be reported immediately, while others are not so serious.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| If you have any of these , tell your doctor immediately. | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| High calcium level in the blood | Increased thirst or frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, confusion, unusual weakness, bone pain. |
| High phosphorus level in the blood | Muscle pain or stiffness, bone or joint pain, numbness around the mouth. |
| If these persist or are bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Common side effects | Constipation, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, loss of appetite, metallic taste in the mouth, nausea, vomiting. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual in addition to these, please contact your doctor for advice.
Take-Home Message
- Doxercalciferol is a type of vitamin D injection given to control hyperparathyroidism in kidney patients.
- Before taking the medicine, tell your doctor about any other illnesses you have, allergies, and all medications you are taking.
- Follow the special diet as prescribed by the doctor. Get your blood tests done on time.
- If you experience excessive thirst, vomiting, bone pain, or allergic symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you miss a dose, never take two doses at once. If in doubt, ask your doctor.
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