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Pronunciation

par-i-KAL-si-tole

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: vitamins

Pharmacologic Classification: fat soluble vitamins

Indications

REMS


Action

  • Paricalcitol is a synthetic analog of calcitriol (the active form of vitamin D3.
  • Promotes the absorption of calcium and decreases parathyroid hormone concentrations.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Improved calcium and phosphorous homeostasis in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: IV administration results in complete bioavailability; well absorbed following oral administration.

Distribution: Crosses the placenta.

Protein Binding: 99.9%.

Metabolism/Excretion: Primarily metabolized by the liver and excreted via hepatobiliary elimination.

Half-Life: 14–20 hr.

Time/Action Profile

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
POunknown2–4 wkunknown
IVunknown2–4 wkunknown



Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

Seen primarily as manifestations of toxicity (hypercalcemia)

CV: arrhythmias, edema, hypertension, palpitations

Derm: pruritus, rash

EENT: conjunctivitis, photophobia, rhinorrhea

Endo: gout

F and E: hypercalcemia

GI: liver function tests, anorexia, constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, metallic taste, nausea, polydipsia, vomiting, weight loss

GU: libido, serum creatinine, albuminuria, azotemia

Metab: hyperthermia

MS: bone pain, metastatic calcification, muscle pain

Neuro: dizziness, headache, somnolence, weakness

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage

Stage 3 or 4 Chronic Kidney Disease

Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease

Availability

(Generic available)

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Toxicity and Overdose:

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Zemplar

Code

NDC Code