Key takeaways
Calcitriol (Rocaltrol) and doxercalciferol (Hectorol) are both vitamin D analogs used to manage calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, but they have some key differences. Calcitriol is the active form of vitamin D and is used to raise blood calcium levels in people with kidney and parathyroid problems. It's available as capsules and a liquid taken by mouth. On the other hand, doxercalciferol is a lab-made form of vitamin D2 that needs to be activated in the body and is used to lower PTH levels in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). It comes in capsules and as an intravenous injection. While both medications can raise calcium levels, calcitriol is already active and works faster. Additionally, doxercalciferol is specifically used for secondary hyperparathyroidism in CKD, while calcitriol is used for a broader range of conditions related to low calcium levels. Both medications require regular blood tests to monitor calcium levels, but doxercalciferol also requires monitoring of PTH levels.
