ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
Calcium levels are checked because it can raise them.
What it's used for
- Kidney disease with high PTH
- Low parathyroid function
- Psoriasis (ointment)
How to take it
- Take it as prescribed with or without food.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Usually few at the right dose
Call your provider todayNausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, or thirst (high calcium)
Warnings
- Don't take other vitamin D products unless told to.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Thiazide water pills raise calcium.
- Magnesium antacids should be avoided in dialysis patients.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Talk with your provider.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Calcitriol (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.