Key takeaways
Calcitriol (Rocaltrol) and sevelamer hydrochloride (Renagel) are both medications used to manage conditions related to kidney health, but they work in different ways and treat different issues. Calcitriol is a vitamin D analog that helps raise blood calcium levels, making it useful for people with low calcium due to kidney or parathyroid problems. Sevelamer hydrochloride, on the other hand, is a phosphate binder used to lower high phosphate levels in adults with chronic kidney disease on dialysis. Calcitriol is available in capsules and liquid form, while sevelamer hydrochloride comes as tablets taken with meals. Calcitriol can cause side effects like muscle weakness and upset stomach, and it interacts with many medications, such as certain antacids and diuretics. Sevelamer hydrochloride may cause nausea, vomiting, and digestive issues, and it can lower the absorption of vitamins D, E, K, and folic acid. Both medications are available as a generic.
