What should your doctor know before you receive
Zemplar
He has to know if you have any of the following conditions:
 heart or circulation problems, or disease
too much calcium or vitamin D
other chronic illnesses
an unusual or allergic reaction to Zemplar, vitamin
D, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should you use Zemplar
Zemplar is for infusion into a vein. It is usually given by
a health care professional in a clinic or hospital setting.
Zemplar may be given at the time of your dialysis; no more
than every other day.
What if you miss a dose:
This does not apply. Your prescriber or health care professional
will monitor your therapy and determine when you should receive
a dose.
What drug(s) may interact with Zemplar
digoxin
heart medicine such as digoxin
phosphorus supplements
vitamin D
water pills
Talk to your prescriber or other health care professional
before taking any of these medicines:
antacids
calcium supplements
magnesium supplements
Tell your prescriber or other health care professional
about all other medicines you are taking including non-prescription
medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products.
Also, tell your prescriber or health care professional if
you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol,
if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect
the way your medicine works. Check before stopping or starting
any of your medications.
What side effects may I notice from taking Zemplar
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or
other health care professional as soon as possible:
fever
increased weakness
headache
nausea/vomiting
constipation
muscle pain
confusion
metallic taste
increase thirst
increase need to urinate
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention
(report to your prescriber or other health care professional
if they continue or are bothersome):
increase water gain
chills
What should you watch for while taking Zemplar
It is very important to follow any diet instructions your
health care professional gives you. This will make sure Zemplar
works well for you. You may need to take calcium supplements
and limit the amount of phosphorus-containing foods you eat.
Do not take other vitamin D products while taking Zemplar.
Zemplar is similar to other forms of vitamin D and severe
side effects may occur if too much vitamin D is taken.
Talk with your prescriber or health care professional before
taking any type of antacid product.
You will need to have your blood levels drawn while you
are receiving Zemplar. You may need weekly blood checks
until the correct dose of Zemplar is found; then only monthly
blood checks will be needed.
|
