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Doxercalciferol vs. Calcitriol

Hectorol (doxercalciferol) is a lab-made form of vitamin D2. It's a medication that's used to lower parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), including those on dialysis. Hectorol (doxercalciferol) is available as lower-cost generic capsules and an injection through the vein (intravenous or IV). Side effects include infection, constipation, runny nose, and cough.

• High PTH levels (secondary parathyroidism) in adults with stage 3 or stage 4 chronic kidney disease (CKD) - capsules only
• High PTH levels in adults with CKD and on dialysis - capsules and IV injection

Stage 3 or 4 CKD:

• Infection (30%)
• Constipation (26%)
• Runny nose (22%)
• Cough (19%)
• Shortness of breath (19%)
• "Pin and needles" feeling in arms or legs (15%)
• Weakness (15%)

CKD on dialysis:

• Swelling (34%)
• Not feeling well (28%)
• Headache (28%)
• Nausea or vomiting (21%)
• Dizziness (12%)
• Shortness of breath (12%)

• High blood calcium levels
• Serious allergic reaction
• Broken bones (fractures)

Calcitriol (Rocaltrol) is a form of vitamin D that's used to raise blood calcium levels; it's commonly used in people with kidney and parathyroid hormone problems. Side effects of calcitriol (Rocaltrol) are similar to the effects you can get when you take too much vitamin D, which includes muscle weakness, feeling tired or sleepy, or upset stomach. Calcitriol (Rocaltrol) comes as capsules and a liquid that you take by mouth. It's available as a brand-name and generic medication.

• Low calcium in people on dialysis
• Secondary hyperparathyroidism in people not yet on dialysis
• Low calcium in people with hypoparathyroidism or pseudohypoparathyroidism

Early signs of high calcium levels:

• Headache
• Weakness
• Feeling tired or sleepy
• Upset stomach or stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Muscle pain
• Bone pain
• Dry mouth
• Metallic taste

• Overdose
• Interactions with other medications