What it means
The kidneys normally make calcitriol from vitamin DVY-tuh-min deeA fat-soluble vitamin that the skin makes in sunlight and that helps the body absorb calcium for strong bones.Full entry . When they fail, as in chronic kidney diseaseKRON-ik KID-nee dih-ZEEZKidney damage or reduced kidney function that lasts longer than three months.Full entry , the body cannot absorb enough calcium, so calcitriol is given by mouth or IV. It is also used for low calcium from underactive parathyroid glands. Too much raises the blood calcium, which can cause weakness, nausea, constipation and confusion.
For the nurse
Check calcium and phosphate levels as ordered and report signs of high calcium. Teach the client not to take other vitamin D or calcium supplements unless the provider approves them.
At a glance
| Drug class | vitamin D analog |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Rocaltrol, Vectical |
| Spanish | calcitriol |
| Also written | Rocaltrol, Vectical |
Related terms
chronic kidney disease
Kidney damage or reduced kidney function that lasts longer than three months.
calcium
A mineral that builds bones and teeth and that nerves, muscles, the heart and blood clotting need to work.
vitamin D
A fat-soluble vitamin that the skin makes in sunlight and that helps the body absorb calcium for strong bones.
psoriasis
A long-term immune-related skin disease in which skin cells grow too fast and pile up on the surface.