calcitriol /kalsit″rē·ôl/ , the active form of vitamin D, a regulator of calcium metabolism. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the management of hypocalcemia in patients undergoing chronic renal dialysis and in patients with hypoparathyroidism. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Hypercalcemia, evidence of vitamin D toxicity, malabsorption syndrome, decreased renal function, or known sensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse reactions are renal toxicity and those associated with hypercalcemia, such as soft tissue calcification.
