alphadol 0.25mcg capsule - Alfacalcidol (0.25mcg) medicine

Alphadol 0.25mcg Capsule: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Panacea Biotec Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 25, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: Well-established for approved indications.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 25, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Confusion or altered mental status
  • Excessive thirst and frequent urination
  • Severe nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
  • Muscle weakness or bone pain
  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  • Blood in urine or painful urination
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is alphadol 0.25mcg capsule used for?

Alphadol 0.25mcg capsule contains alfacalcidol, a vitamin D analogue used to treat low calcium levels and bone disease in chronic kidney disease, osteoporosis, and related conditions. It works by increasing calcium absorption and promoting bone health. It requires regular monitoring of calcium levels.

  • Generic Name: Alfacalcidol
  • Manufacturer: Panacea Biotec Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 alphadol 0.25mcg capsule के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा अल्फाकैल्सिडॉल नामक सक्रिय तत्व से बनी है और यह विटामिन डी की श्रेणी में आती है। इसका उपयोग मुख्य रूप से शरीर में कैल्शियम की कमी को पूरा करने, किडनी की बीमारी से जुड़ी हड्डियों की समस्या, ऑस्टियोपोरोसिस, रिकेट्स और ऑस्टियोमलेशिया के इलाज में किया जाता है। यह दवा कैल्शियम के अवशोषण को बढ़ाती है और हड्डियों को मजबूत बनाने में मदद करती है। यह डॉक्टर के परामर्श के बिना नहीं लेनी चाहिए और नियमित रूप से कैल्शियम की जांच करानी चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, कब्ज, सिरदर्द, मुंह सूखना और कमजोरी शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में रक्त में कैल्शियम का स्तर बढ़ना, गुर्दे की पथरी, और दिल की धड़कन में गड़बड़ी हो सकती है। अगर आपको भ्रम, अत्यधिक प्यास, बार-बार पेशाब आना, या मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी महसूस हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसे पानी के साथ निगलें, चबाएं नहीं। हर दिन एक ही समय पर लेने की कोशिश करें। डॉक्टर समय-समय पर कैल्शियम और किडनी की जांच करेंगे, इसलिए सभी जांचें समय पर कराएं। बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के अतिरिक्त विटामिन डी या कैल्शियम सप्लीमेंट न लें। अगर आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। दवा को बच्चों से दूर, ठंडी और सूखी जगह पर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 alphadol 0.25mcg capsule Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Hypocalcaemia","description":"Used to treat low calcium levels in the blood, especially when caused by chronic kidney disease or hypoparathyroidism.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Renal osteodystrophy","description":"Helps manage bone disease in people with chronic kidney disease by regulating calcium and phosphate balance.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Osteoporosis","description":"Supports bone health and may be used as an adjunct to other treatments to reduce fracture risk.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Rickets and osteomalacia","description":"Treats softening and weakening of bones due to vitamin D deficiency or impaired metabolism.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Hypoparathyroidism","description":"Helps maintain normal calcium levels when the parathyroid glands do not produce enough parathyroid hormone.","evidence":"Established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Psoriasis","description":"Sometimes used off-label for its effects on skin cell differentiation, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Prevention of corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis","description":"May be considered in some patients, but not a standard first-line approach.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Hypocalcaemia

Also treats: Renal osteodystrophy, Osteoporosis, Rickets, Osteomalacia, Hypoparathyroidism

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Alfacalcidol
Brand NameAlphadol
ManufacturerPanacea Biotec Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassVITAMINS MINERALS NUTRIENTS
Action ClassVitamins
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in the original container, tightly closed, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate unless specified by the manufacturer.
Shelf LifeTypically 24 months from the date of manufacture, but check the expiry date on the packaging.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always monitor serum calcium levels before and during treatment to avoid hypercalcaemia.
2
Start with a low dose and titrate slowly based on calcium levels.
3
Advise patients to avoid taking additional vitamin D or calcium supplements unless prescribed.
4
Check for interactions with thiazide diuretics and digoxin before prescribing.
5
Educate patients about the symptoms of hypercalcaemia and when to seek help.
6
Ensure regular kidney function tests, especially in chronic kidney disease patients.
7
Consider alternative vitamin D analogues if hypercalcaemia occurs.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Low calcium levels
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Bone pain due to kidney disease
This medicine helps manage renal osteodystrophy.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionAlfacalcidol is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. It is a prodrug that is quickly converted to its active form, so its absorption is not dependent on bile salts or dietary fat to the same extent as some other vitamin D preparations.
DistributionAfter conversion to its active form, calcitriol is distributed to target tissues including the intestine, bone, kidney, and parathyroid glands. It is transported in the blood bound to vitamin D-binding protein.
Protein BindingThe active metabolite is highly bound to vitamin D-binding protein in the plasma.
MetabolismAlfacalcidol undergoes rapid hepatic 25-hydroxylation to form 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol), which is the active metabolite. Further metabolism occurs in the kidney and other tissues.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of the active metabolite is approximately 3 to 6 hours, but the biological effects last longer due to tissue distribution and receptor binding.
ExcretionMetabolites are excreted mainly in the bile and feces, with a smaller amount excreted in the urine.
BioavailabilityBioavailability is high because alfacalcidol is rapidly converted to the active form. However, exact values are not well established from available information.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action is gradual. It may take several days to weeks for full therapeutic effects on calcium levels and bone to become apparent.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma levels of the active metabolite are reached within 2 to 6 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe biological effects persist for several days to weeks, depending on the dose and individual patient factors.

How It Works

Alfacalcidol is a synthetic vitamin D analogue that is converted in the liver by 25-hydroxylation to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol), the active form of vitamin D. This active metabolite binds to vitamin D receptors in the intestine, bone, kidney, and parathyroid glands. In the intestine, it increases the absorption of calcium and phosphate. In bone, it promotes normal bone mineralization and may stimulate bone formation. In the kidney, it reduces calcium excretion and increases phosphate reabsorption. In the parathyroid glands, it suppresses parathyroid hormone secretion. Together, these actions help normalize calcium and phosphate levels and support healthy bone metabolism.

Mechanism Steps

1
Liver activation: Alfacalcidol is rapidly converted in the liver to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, the biologically active form of vitamin D.
2
Vitamin D receptor binding: The active metabolite binds to vitamin D receptors in target tissues such as the intestine, bone, kidney, and parathyroid glands.
3
Increased calcium absorption: In the intestine, it stimulates the production of calcium-binding proteins, leading to increased absorption of dietary calcium.
4
Bone mineralization: In bone, it promotes the deposition of calcium and phosphate, supporting normal bone mineralization and strength.
5
Renal calcium conservation: In the kidney, it reduces calcium excretion and enhances phosphate reabsorption, helping to maintain normal blood levels.
6
Parathyroid suppression: It suppresses parathyroid hormone secretion, which helps reduce bone turnover and maintain calcium balance.

💡 How to Take alphadol 0.25mcg capsule

Strength: Alfacalcidol 0.25 microgram immediate-release capsule

1Take the capsule at the same time each day.
2Swallow it whole with a glass of water.
3You can take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
4Do not crush, chew, or open the capsule.
5Follow your doctor's instructions exactly.
6Do not take extra vitamin D or calcium supplements unless prescribed.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, severity of the condition, and the patient's calcium and renal function. For hypocalcaemia and renal osteodystrophy, a common starting dose is 0.25 micrograms once daily, which may be adjusted up to 1 microgram daily. For osteoporosis, doses typically range from 0.25 to 1 microgram daily. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Regular monitoring of serum calcium is essential to guide dose adjustments.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine and are at higher risk of hypercalcaemia. Start with a lower dose and monitor calcium levels closely. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, alfacalcidol can be used but requires careful monitoring of calcium and phosphate levels. Dose adjustment may be necessary. It is often used in chronic kidney disease patients, but under close supervision.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with hepatic impairment, the conversion of alfacalcidol to its active form may be reduced. Dose adjustment and close monitoring are recommended. Consult a hepatologist.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose is typically 1 microgram, but it may be higher in some cases under strict medical supervision. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
High-calcium foods
Moderate intake
Excessive calcium may increase risk of hypercalcaemia.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of alphadol 0.25mcg capsule

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Vomiting (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. If vomiting is severe or persistent, contact your doctor.
Constipation (Common (5-10%))
Increase fiber and fluid intake. Consult your doctor if it continues.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. If headache is severe or persistent, seek medical advice.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water regularly. Inform your doctor if it bothers you.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Hypercalcaemia (Uncommon (1-10%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience confusion, excessive thirst, frequent urination, or muscle weakness.
Kidney stones (Rare (<0.1%))
Report severe flank pain, blood in urine, or painful urination to your doctor immediately.
Nephrocalcinosis (Rare (<0.1%))
Regular monitoring of kidney function is essential. Report any changes in urine output.
Pancreatitis (Very rare (<0.01%))
Seek emergency care for severe abdominal pain radiating to the back, with nausea and vomiting.
Cardiac arrhythmias (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience palpitations, chest pain, or shortness of breath.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Hypersensitivity reactions
Seek emergency care if you develop rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Hyperphosphataemia
Your doctor will monitor phosphate levels. Report any muscle twitching or cramps.
Ectopic calcification
Regular monitoring helps prevent this. Report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Thiazide diuretics Major
Digoxin Major
Vitamin D supplements Major
Calcium supplements Moderate
Corticosteroids Moderate
Anticonvulsants Moderate
Cholestyramine Moderate
Orlistat Minor
Mineral oil Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Thiazide diuretics
  • Digoxin and other cardiac glycosides
  • Vitamin D supplements or analogues
  • Calcium-containing antacids or supplements

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Corticosteroids
  • Anticonvulsants (phenytoin, phenobarbital)
  • Cholestyramine

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may affect calcium metabolism and increase the risk of bone loss. It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking this medicine. Excessive alcohol intake can also worsen the underlying condition being treated.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypercalcaemia (high blood calcium levels)","Hypervitaminosis D (excess vitamin D)","Known hypersensitivity to alfacalcidol or any component of the capsule","Hyperphosphataemia (high phosphate levels) in some cases","Severe renal impairment without monitoring"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Monitor serum calcium and phosphate regularly to avoid hypercalcaemia.","Use with caution in patients with a history of kidney stones.","Avoid concurrent use of other vitamin D supplements unless prescribed.","Patients with sarcoidosis may be more sensitive to vitamin D effects.","Elderly patients may be more prone to hypercalcaemia.","Inform your doctor if you are taking digoxin or thiazide diuretics.","Do not exceed the prescribed dose.","If hypercalcaemia occurs, stop the medicine and consult your doctor immediately."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Alfacalcidol may pass into breast milk. Use with caution and only if prescribed by a doctor. Monitor the infant for signs of hypercalcaemia if the mother is on high doses.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose can cause severe hypercalcaemia, leading to nausea, vomiting, dehydration, confusion, and cardiac arrhythmias. Treatment includes stopping the medicine, intravenous fluids, and medications to lower calcium levels (such as calcitonin or bisphosphonates). Seek emergency medical attention immediately if overdose is suspected.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than the recommended dose. Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water, with or without food, but try to take it at the same time each day. Your doctor will order regular blood tests to check your calcium, phosphate, and kidney function. Keep all follow-up appointments. Avoid taking extra vitamin D or calcium supplements unless your doctor specifically tells you to, as this can increase the risk of high calcium levels. Tell your doctor if you have a history of kidney stones, heart disease, or sarcoidosis. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor before taking this medicine. Do not share this medicine with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms. Store the capsules in their original container at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at higher risk of hypercalcaemia and should be monitored closely. Lower starting doses may be appropriate.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor. Adequate vitamin D is important, but high doses of alfacalcidol should be avoided unless prescribed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, inform your surgeon about this medicine. Monitoring of calcium levels may be necessary, especially if you are unable to eat normally.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist about this medicine. No specific precautions are usually needed, but maintain good oral hygiene.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a balanced diet with adequate calcium and vitamin D.
🥗
Engage in weight-bearing exercises to support bone health.
😴
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.
💧
Stay hydrated to support kidney function.
🧘
Get regular check-ups and blood tests as advised.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

If you experience dizziness or muscle weakness due to hypercalcaemia, avoid strenuous exercise and consult your doctor. Otherwise, regular low-impact exercise is beneficial for bone health.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified products.
Ensure adequate vitamin D from sunlight and diet.
Limit excessive calcium supplements unless prescribed.
Stay well hydrated.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine generally does not affect your ability to work. However, if you experience side effects like dizziness or confusion, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel better.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience signs of hypercalcaemia, your doctor may advise temporarily stopping the medicine. Always follow medical advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use requires regular monitoring of calcium, phosphate, and kidney function. Prolonged hypercalcaemia can lead to kidney stones, nephrocalcinosis, and soft tissue calcification. Adherence to monitoring and dose adjustments helps prevent these complications. Periodic assessment of bone health is also recommended.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Calcitriol

Another active vitamin D analogue that may be used instead.

Evidence: Well-established
Cholecalciferol

Vitamin D3 supplement for deficiency states.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific vaccine interactions are established. Continue routine vaccinations as per schedule.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage to avoid temperature extremes. If traveling across time zones, maintain your dosing schedule as close to usual as possible; consult your doctor for specific advice. Store away from direct sunlight and moisture. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 58-year-old man with chronic kidney disease and bone pain
He was prescribed this medicine at 0.25 mcg daily. After 4 weeks, his calcium levels improved and bone pain reduced. He learned to take it at the same time each day and kept regular lab appointments.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use and regular monitoring are key to safe and effective treatment.
👤 A 65-year-old woman with osteoporosis
She started this medicine along with calcium and vitamin D under medical supervision. She experienced mild nausea initially but it subsided. Her bone density improved over 6 months.
💡 Lesson: Patience and adherence to the prescribed regimen lead to gradual bone health improvement.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: It may take several weeks to see full effects on calcium levels and bone health.

Q: Can I take it with other medicines?

A: Inform your doctor about all medicines, especially thiazide diuretics, digoxin, and calcium supplements.

Q: What if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember, but skip if it's almost time for the next dose. Do not double dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for alphadol 0.25mcg capsule

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Alphadol is a calcium supplement.
    Fact: Alphadol is a vitamin D analogue that helps your body absorb calcium; it is not a calcium supplement itself.
  • Myth: You can take alphadol without monitoring.
    Fact: Regular blood tests for calcium are essential to prevent serious side effects.
  • Myth: Alphadol works immediately.
    Fact: It may take several weeks to see full benefits.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Alfacalcidol 0.25mcg capsule (various manufacturers)

Brand Alternatives

  • Alphadol 0.25mcg capsule (Panacea Biotec Ltd)

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Alfacalcidol","class":"Vitamin D analogue","route":"Oral","common_use":"Hypocalcaemia, renal osteodystrophy"},{"medicine":"Calcitriol","class":"Active vitamin D","route":"Oral","common_use":"Hypocalcaemia, psoriasis"},{"medicine":"Cholecalciferol","class":"Vitamin D3","route":"Oral","common_use":"Vitamin D deficiency"}]

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