Introduction

Paricalcitol (par-i-KAL-si-tol)

Treats hyperparathyroidism caused by kidney failure.

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

Zemplar

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to paricalcitol, or if you have high levels of calcium or vitamin D in your blood.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Your dose may need to be changed several times in order to find out what works best for you. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about diet, vitamins, and mineral supplements.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using digoxin (Lanoxin®).
• Do not use vitamin D or calcium supplements without asking your doctor.
• Your doctor may tell you to limit your dietary intake of phosphate. Foods that are high in phosphate include milk, cheese, yogurt, peas, beans, leafy green vegetables, nuts, chocolate, and cola soft drinks.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood or urine at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Cough, trouble breathing.
• Fever, chills, sore throat, and body aches.
• Weakness, nausea, vomiting, dryness or metallic taste in your mouth, muscle pain, bone pain, constipation.
• Weight loss, sudden or severe stomach pain, itchy skin, uneven heartbeats, eye redness or sensitivity to light.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Lightheadedness.
• Mild skin rash, itching.
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088