Laretol 1mcg Injection: Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Severe nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
- Confusion, lethargy, or extreme thirst
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
- Muscle weakness or bone pain
- Swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Decreased urine output
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is laretol 1mcg injection used for?
This medicine is an injectable form of calcitriol, the active vitamin D hormone. It is used to treat low calcium levels in people with chronic kidney disease on dialysis and to manage secondary hyperparathyroidism. It works by increasing calcium absorption and suppressing parathyroid hormone. It is given intravenously by a healthcare professional, usually during dialysis.
- Generic Name: Calcitriol (1mcg)
- Manufacturer: La Renon Healthcare Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 laretol 1mcg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा कैल्सिट्रियोल का इंजेक्शन रूप है, जो विटामिन डी का सक्रिय रूप है। इसका उपयोग गुर्दे की बीमारी वाले मरीजों में कैल्शियम की कमी को पूरा करने और पैराथायरॉइड हार्मोन को नियंत्रित करने के लिए किया जाता है। यह डायलिसिस के दौरान नस के माध्यम से दी जाती है। यह दवा शरीर में कैल्शियम के अवशोषण को बढ़ाती है और हड्डियों को मजबूत बनाने में मदद करती है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, कब्ज, सिरदर्द और मुँह सूखना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में कैल्शियम का स्तर बहुत अधिक बढ़ना (हाइपरकैल्सीमिया) शामिल है, जिससे भ्रम, अत्यधिक प्यास, बार-बार पेशाब आना और दिल की धड़कन अनियमित हो सकती है। अगर ऐसे लक्षण दिखें तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल योग्य स्वास्थ्यकर्मी द्वारा ही दी जानी चाहिए। इसे स्वयं न लगाएं। नियमित रूप से कैल्शियम, फॉस्फेट और पैराथायरॉइड हार्मोन की जांच कराते रहें। डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना कैल्शियम या विटामिन डी की खुराक न लें। अगर आपको गुर्दे की पथरी, हृदय रोग या सारकॉइडोसिस है तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। पर्याप्त पानी पिएं जब तक डॉक्टर ने रोका न हो।
💊 laretol 1mcg injection Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Hypocalcemia in chronic kidney disease on dialysis","description":"This medicine raises serum calcium by increasing intestinal absorption and mobilizing calcium from bone, and it suppresses parathyroid hormone in secondary hyperparathyroidism.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Secondary hyperparathyroidism in dialysis patients","description":"It directly suppresses parathyroid hormone secretion by acting on vitamin D receptors in the parathyroid glands.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Hypoparathyroidism","description":"Used to manage low calcium levels when parathyroid hormone is deficient, though oral forms are more common.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Vitamin D-resistant rickets","description":"May be used in some forms of rickets that do not respond to standard vitamin D, especially when rapid action is needed.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Osteoporosis in patients with renal failure","description":"Sometimes used to improve bone mineral density in specific high-risk patients, but not a standard first-line approach.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Psoriasis","description":"Topical calcitriol is used for psoriasis, but injectable form is not standard for this indication.","evidence":"Not established for injectable route"}]
Primary treatment for: Hypocalcemia in chronic kidney disease
Also treats: Secondary hyperparathyroidism, Hypoparathyroidism, Vitamin D-resistant rickets
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Calcitriol (1mcg) |
| Brand Name | laretol 1mcg injection |
| Manufacturer | La Renon Healthcare Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | VITAMINS MINERALS NUTRIENTS |
| Action Class | Vitamins |
| Route of Administration | Parenteral (intravenous) |
| Storage | Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep in the original carton until use. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
Calcitriol is the active form of vitamin D. It binds to the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in target tissues, forming a complex that interacts with vitamin D response elements in DNA to regulate gene transcription. This increases intestinal calcium and phosphate absorption, promotes renal calcium reabsorption, and modulates bone remodeling. In the parathyroid glands, it suppresses parathyroid hormone synthesis and secretion, helping to control secondary hyperparathyroidism in kidney disease.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take laretol 1mcg injection
Strength: 1 mcg/mL injection
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine is individualized by a qualified clinician based on the patient's serum calcium, phosphate, and parathyroid hormone levels. It is typically given intravenously three times weekly during dialysis. The starting dose is usually 0.5 mcg to 1 mcg per session, but adjustments are made according to response. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of calcitriol. Dose should be individualized by a clinician, with close monitoring of calcium levels. |
| Renal Impairment | This medicine is specifically used in patients with chronic kidney disease, including those on dialysis. No specific dose adjustment is required for renal impairment, but monitoring is crucial. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment. Use with caution and monitor liver function. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum dose is determined by the clinician based on clinical response and calcium levels. Do not exceed prescribed dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of laretol 1mcg injection
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Calcium supplements | Major | |
| Vitamin D analogues | Major | |
| Thiazide diuretics | Major | |
| Digoxin | Major | |
| Corticosteroids | Moderate | |
| Ketoconazole | Moderate | |
| Aluminum antacids | Moderate | |
| Cholestyramine | Minor | |
| Orlistat | Minor | |
| Phenytoin | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Calcium supplements
- Vitamin D analogues
- Thiazide diuretics
- Digoxin
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Corticosteroids
- Ketoconazole
- Aluminum-containing antacids
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may affect calcium metabolism and liver function. It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption while receiving this medicine, as it may worsen hypercalcemia or liver stress.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypercalcemia","Vitamin D toxicity","Known hypersensitivity to calcitriol or any component of the formulation","Severe hyperphosphatemia"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Monitor serum calcium and phosphate closely; hypercalcemia can occur.","Avoid concurrent use of other vitamin D supplements or calcium supplements unless prescribed.","Use with caution in patients with kidney stones or a history of nephrocalcinosis.","Patients with heart disease may be at risk of arrhythmias if hypercalcemia develops.","Not for self-administration; must be given by a healthcare professional.","Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether calcitriol is excreted in human breast milk. Because many drugs are excreted in breast milk, caution should be exercised when this medicine is administered to a nursing woman. Consult your doctor.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose can cause severe hypercalcemia. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, confusion, and cardiac arrhythmias. Treatment is supportive and may include discontinuation of the drug, hydration, and medications to lower calcium levels. Seek immediate medical attention.
⏰ Missed Dose
This medicine is given by a healthcare professional, usually during dialysis sessions. If you miss a scheduled dose, contact your healthcare provider to reschedule. Do not attempt to self-administer.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must only be given by a qualified healthcare professional. Do not attempt to self-administer. Regular monitoring of serum calcium, phosphate, and parathyroid hormone is required. Avoid taking vitamin D or calcium supplements without your doctor's approval, as this can raise calcium levels dangerously. Inform your doctor if you have a history of kidney stones, heart disease, or sarcoidosis. Drink adequate fluids unless your doctor has restricted them. Report any symptoms of high calcium such as muscle pain, confusion, or increased urination immediately.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of calcitriol, especially regarding hypercalcemia. Close monitoring of calcium levels and kidney function is advised. Dose adjustments may be necessary.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before conception. This medicine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, especially parathyroidectomy, calcium levels may fluctuate. This medicine may be used to manage hypocalcemia. Close monitoring is required.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are receiving this medicine. No specific precautions are established, but maintain good oral hygiene and report any jaw pain.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Exercise is generally safe, but if you have bone pain or muscle weakness, avoid high-impact activities. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine is given during dialysis, so it may not directly affect your work. However, underlying kidney disease may cause fatigue. Avoid driving if you feel dizzy or unwell after treatment.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. It is usually continued as long as needed to manage calcium and parathyroid hormone levels. Your doctor will decide when to stop based on your condition and blood test results.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine requires regular monitoring of calcium, phosphate, and parathyroid hormone levels to prevent hypercalcemia and its complications. Prolonged hypercalcemia can lead to kidney stones, kidney damage, and cardiac arrhythmias. Periodic assessment of kidney function and bone health is recommended. Your doctor will adjust the dose as needed.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Oral form may be used if intravenous access is not available or as maintenance.
Evidence: Well-establishedParicalcitol or doxercalciferol may be alternatives for secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Evidence: Well-establishedA calcimimetic that lowers parathyroid hormone, used in some patients.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
No specific vaccine interactions are established. However, patients with kidney disease should follow vaccination guidelines for influenza, pneumococcal, and hepatitis B vaccines as recommended by their doctor.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store in refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze
✅ DO
Keep in original carton to protect from light
❌ DON'T
Do not expose to direct sunlight
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children
❌ DON'T
Do not use if solution is discolored or contains particles
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
This medicine is given by healthcare professionals, so travel should be planned around dialysis sessions. If you need to travel, arrange for dialysis and medication administration at your destination in advance. Carry a copy of your prescription and medical records. The medicine should be stored refrigerated (2-8°C) and protected from light. When flying, carry it in original packaging with a doctor's letter. Check customs regulations for injectable medications.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: The effect on serum calcium can be seen within 1-2 hours after injection, but it may take several days to weeks to see full benefits on parathyroid hormone levels.
A: Safety in pregnancy is not fully established. Use only if clearly needed and under your doctor's supervision.
A: Avoid taking calcium or vitamin D supplements without your doctor's approval. Limit alcohol and inform your doctor about all other medications.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for laretol 1mcg injection
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
calcijet injectionLG Lifesciences ₹120.58 14.8% CHEAPER
-
calcileap injectionGenix Lifescience Pvt Ltd ₹129.00 8.9% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can be self-administered at home.
Fact: No, it must be given by a healthcare professional intravenously. - Myth: It is a general vitamin D supplement.
Fact: It is a potent prescription medicine for specific conditions, not a routine supplement. - Myth: More calcium in diet is always better while on this medicine.
Fact: Excessive calcium can lead to dangerous hypercalcemia; monitor intake.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Calcitriol injection (generic)
Brand Alternatives
- Calcijex
- Rocaltrol (oral form)