nesium-containing antacids. Patients should be also be carefully informed about the symptoms of hypercalcaemia.Essential Laboratory TestsSerum calcium, phosphate, magnesium and alkaline phosphatase and 24-hour urinary calcium and phosphate should be determined periodically. During the initial phase of the medication, serum calcium and phosphate should be determined more frequently (twice weekly).Renal TransplantationThe rate of bone loss can be excessive and may exceed 5% per year in the immediate post-transplant period. Recommendations for treating post-transplant bone loss with calcitriol have not been established.
Interactions
Magnesium-containing antacids and Calcijex should not be used concomitantly, because such use may lead to the development of hypermagnesaemia.Concurrent use of vitamin D analogs and cardiac glycosides may result in cardiac arrhythmias.The effects of vitamin D may be reduced in patients taking barbiturates or anticonvulsants.Corticosteroids may counteract the effect of vitamin D analogs.
Adverse Reactions
Adverse effects of Calcijex are, in general, similar to those encountered with excessive vitamin D intake. The early and late signs and symptoms of vitamin D intoxication associated with hypercalcaemia include :EarlyWeakness, headaches, somnolence, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, constipation, muscle pain, bone pain and metallic taste.LatePolyuria, polydipsia, anorexia, weight loss, nocturia, conjunctivitis (calcific), pancreatitis, photophobia, rhinorrhea, pruritus, hyperthermia, decreased libido, elevated BUN, albuminuria, hypercholesterolaemia, elevated SGOT and SGPT, ectopic calcification, hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias and, rarely, overt psychosis.Rare cases of hypersensitivity reactions have been reported including anaphylaxis and localised redness at the injection site.
Manufacturer
Abbott
Drug Availability
(POM)
Updated
22 June 2009
