Alfacalcidol
Also known as: Hydroxy Vit D3
Alfacalcidiol is an analog of vitamin D3, a fat soluble sterol, sometimes considered to be hormone or hormone precursor. Alfacalcidol is involved in promoting normal bone development in body by regulating calcium, phosphorus and minerals. Vitamin D is a secosteroid and sometimes popularly known as the 'sunshine vitamine' because formed in the skin from 7-dehydrocholesterol under the influence of ultraviolet irradiation. Alfacalcidol is also found in certain foods. Fish liver oils, especially code liver oil are good sources of vitamin D. Dairy products contain some vitamin but the potency varies with season. Alfacalcidiol was introduced into clinical use in the early 1970s. Alfacalcidol is prepared by total or partial chemical synthsis. Alfacalcidol is not available in any combination preparation.
Primary Characteristics
Alfacalcidol is also known as Hydroxy Vit D3.
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Hydroxycalciol.
It belongs to Vitamin D agonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action.
Molecular Weight: 400.6 · Solubility in Water: negligible · Solubility in Alcohol: freely Soluble · Non-proprietary name: Alfacalcidol.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Alfacalcidol has an oral bioavailability is 100%.
Distribution: Alfacalcidol has a plasma protein binding is extensive.
Elimination: it is metabolised via 50% (to active form), plasma half-life is 3 hr, renal excretion is 13%.
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Indications
Alfacalcidol is primarily indicated in conditions like Neonatal hypocalcemia, Oncogenic hypophosphatemic osteomalacia, Osteomalacia in malabsorption syndrome, Osteoporosis, Parathyroid bone disease, Renal osteodystrophy, Renal tubular osteomalacia, Rickets in premature infants, Sporadic hypophosphatemic osteomalacia, Uremic osteodystrophy, Vitamin D therapy in patients with severe renal impairment, Vitamin D-dependent rickets, X-linked hypophosphataemic osteomalacia.
Alfacalcidol is also indicated for secondary conditions like Psoriasis.
Contraindications
Alfacalcidol is contraindicated in conditions like Hypercalcaemia.
Dosage
Alfacalcidol's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 0.625 mcg/kg | 0.625 mcg/kg | Every 24h | PO | Maintenance |
| 1 mcg | 1 mcg | Every 24h | PO | Initial Dose, increased gradually |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0.05 ug/kg | 0.05 ug/kg | Every 24h | Oral | - |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0.05 mg/kg | 0.05 mg/kg | Every 24h | oral | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Alfacalcidol in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Urinary calcium stone formation, Hypercalciuria, Hypercalcemia , CNS depression.
Alfacalcidol produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Coma. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Alfacalcidol are Vertigo , Nausea, Anorexia , Thirst , Vomiting, Polyuria, Headache, Sweating , Diarrhea.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Alfacalcidol may interfere in the diagnosis of Interferes with assays for other plasma vitamin D metabolites .
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Multi-Ingredient Combinations
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.27 — Vitamins, minerals, tonics, and other susbstances
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Alfacalcidol in Pakistan: