Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

You may take this medicine with or without food.

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

Your doctor may tell you to limit your dietary intake of phosphate. Foods that are high in phosphate include beans, beer, chocolate, cheese, cola soft drinks, ice cream, milk, nuts, peas, whole grain products, and yogurt.

If you are also taking cholestyramine or mineral oil, do not take it at the same time that you take this medicine. Take paricalcitol capsules at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after taking cholestyramine or mineral oil.

Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while you are using this medicine.

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 in patients with chronic kidney disease:
      • Adults—At first, 1 to 2 micrograms (mcg) once a day or 2 to 4 mcg 3 times a week (taken not more than every other day) as directed by your doctor. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.
      • Children 10 to 16 years of age—1 mcg 3 times a week (taken not more than every other day) as directed by your doctor. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.
      • Children younger than 10 years of age—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.