Tv10punjab | Health Desk
🔍 What is Alfacalcidol?
Alfacalcidol is a vitamin D analog. This means it is a form of vitamin D that is already partially activated. In the body, alfacalcidol gets quickly converted into the active form of vitamin D (calcitriol), which helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body. These minerals are crucial for healthy bones, teeth, and muscle function.
💊 What is Alphadol-0.25?
Alphadol-0.25 is a brand name for Alfacalcidol Capsules 0.25 mcg, manufactured by Panacea Biotec. Each capsule contains 0.25 micrograms of alfacalcidol.
🩺 Uses of Alfacalcidol Capsules
Alfacalcidol is mainly used in conditions related to vitamin D deficiency or problems where the body cannot convert vitamin D to its active form properly. Some common uses include:
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
In CKD, the kidneys cannot activate vitamin D. Alfacalcidol helps in such cases by bypassing this step, improving calcium balance and bone health.
- Osteomalacia
A condition where bones become soft due to vitamin D deficiency. Alfacalcidol helps in mineralizing the bones.
- Rickets in Children
Helps prevent and treat rickets, a bone-softening disease in children caused by lack of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate.
- Hypocalcemia
This means low levels of calcium in the blood. Alfacalcidol helps increase calcium absorption from the intestine.
- Post-Menopausal Bone Loss / Osteoporosis
Used to strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures in elderly and postmenopausal women.
- Hypoparathyroidism
When the parathyroid glands don’t produce enough hormone to regulate calcium and phosphate, alfacalcidol helps maintain balance.
✅ Benefits of Alfacalcidol
Improves calcium and phosphate absorption
Helps build and maintain strong bones
Prevents bone pain and deformities
Especially helpful in kidney-related bone problems
Reduces risk of fractures in elderly
⚠️ Dosage and How to Use
The dose is usually 0.25 mcg to 1 mcg per day, depending on the patient’s condition.
Always take as prescribed by your doctor.
Take the capsule with or without food, ideally at the same time each day.
Do not self-medicate or change the dose on your own.
⚠️ Warning (As Seen on the Strip)
“To be sold by retail on the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner only.”
This means you must not take this medicine without a doctor’s advice. Taking it without supervision can lead to serious health issues.
⚠️ Side Effects of Alfacalcidol
Though usually well-tolerated, alfacalcidol can sometimes cause side effects if not used properly or in high doses:
Common Side Effects:
Nausea
Headache
Metallic taste
Fatigue or weakness
Serious Side Effects (Usually from Overdose):
Hypercalcemia (Too much calcium in the blood)
Confusion
Increased thirst or urination
Irregular heartbeat
Vomiting
Kidney stones
If you notice any of these, contact your doctor immediately.
🔬 How It Works in the Body
Alfacalcidol is converted in the liver to calcitriol, which then helps the intestines absorb more calcium and phosphate. It also helps bones use calcium effectively. This process is especially helpful in patients whose kidneys are not working properly.
🛡️ Precautions to Take
Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, heart problems, or high calcium levels.
Avoid taking other vitamin D supplements or calcium supplements without doctor’s approval.
Keep the medicine away from light and moisture, as written on the strip:
“Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Protect from light and moisture.”
Keep out of reach of children.
⚖️ Drug Interactions
Alfacalcidol may interact with:
Diuretics (water pills)
Antacids containing magnesium
Other vitamin D products
Digoxin (used for heart problems)
Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking.
📦 Storage Instructions (from the strip)
“Store below 25°C. Keep away from moisture and sunlight.”
“Keep the medicine out of reach of children.”
📋 Summary Table
Feature Description
🛑 Final Warning
Alfacalcidol (Alphadol-0.25) is a powerful vitamin D supplement that must only be used under medical supervision. Overuse can cause serious calcium imbalance, kidney issues, and even heart problems.
⚠️ Never take this medicine without a doctor’s prescription.
If you have symptoms of vitamin D deficiency or bone pain, consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.