Doxercalciferol capsules

What is this medicine?

DOXERCALCIFEROL (docks er kal SIF e role) is a man-made form of vitamin D. It helps the body have the right amount of calcium and phosphorus. This vitamin is needed for strong bones and teeth. It is used in patients with chronic renal failure.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• bone, muscle pain

• breathing problems

• chest pain, irregular heartbeat

• fever, infection

• hallucination, loss of contact with reality

• high blood pressure

• increased need to urinate, especially at night

• increased thirst

• numb, tingling pain

• seizures

• unexpected weight loss

• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• constipation

• dry mouth

• headache

• loss of appetite

• metallic taste

• stomach upset

• trouble sleeping

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• vitamin D

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• certain medicines for cholesterol like cholestyramine, colestipol

• certain medicines for seizures, like phenobarbital

• digoxin

• diuretics

• erythromycin

• glutethimide

• grapefruit juice

• ketoconazole

• mineral oil

• orlistat

• some over-the-counter products like antacids and vitamins

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• liver disease

• too much calcium, phosphorus, or vitamin D in your blood

• an unusual or allergic reaction to doxercalciferol, vitamin D, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You will need to have important lab work done while you are taking this medicine.

It is very important to follow any diet instructions your healthcare professional gives you. Do not take any non-prescription medicines that have vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium, or calcium including antacids, unless directed by your doctor.

If you are taking cholestyramine, colestipol, or mineral oil, do not take these at the same time as this medicine. Separate the timing of the doses as much as possible.