Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. This medicine is usually taken at the time you have dialysis treatment.

Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet. Do not use vitamin D, phosphate, or calcium supplements, or antacids or other medicines containing magnesium without asking your doctor.

Take this medicine at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after taking cholestyramine, mineral oil, or other products that may affect fat absorption.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For oral dosage form (capsules):
    • For hyperparathyroidism with chronic kidney disease on dialysis:
      • Adults—At first, 10 micrograms (mcg) 3 times a week during dialysis. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed and tolerated. However, the dose is usually not more than 60 mcg per week.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • For hyperparathyroidism with stage 3 or 4 chronic kidney disease:
      • Adults—At first, 1 microgram (mcg) once a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed and tolerated. However, the dose is usually not more than 3.5 mcg per day.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Portions of this document last updated: Feb. 01, 2024

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