Uses of Zemplar

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1. What does Zemplar do?

What is Zemplar? Zemplar is a man-made synthetic form of vitamin D, which plays an important role in the absorption of calcium from the stomach for calcium's activity in the body. Zemplar is indicated for the treatment and prevention of overactive parathyroid glands in patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis. These patients have high levels of parathyroid hormone due to low calcium and certain vitamin D levels. Excessive parathyroid hormone can cause serious problems such as bone disorders. Thus, Zemplar helps reduce parathyroid hormone levels and can help the body absorb calcium and phosphorus.
Besides the above uses, Zemplar may also be used to treat a number of other conditions that are not listed above. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a doctor before using the drug to be advised on how to use the drug in the most effective way.

2. How to use and dosage of Zemplar

2.1. How to use Zemplar medicine is made in the form of orange-brown capsules with oval shape, so it can be used on an empty or full stomach, taking the drug with a full glass of water to help avoid stomach irritation. Dosage of Zemplar will depend on the condition and age of the patient.
2.2. Dosage For adults with secondary hyperparathyroidism, the starting dose is based on parathyroid hormone: If <500pg/mL, 1mcg - 2mcg/day, 3 times a week. If > 500pg/mL, 2mcg or 4mcg/day, 3 times a week. For children with secondary hyperparathyroidism: The initial dose for children aged 5-18 years is 0.04 mcg/kg, orally 3 times a week if intact parathyroid hormone < 500 pg/mL.

3. Undesirable effects when using Zemplar

Some unwanted effects that may occur when using Zemplar include:
Nausea Swelling in the hands or feet Dizziness, lightheadedness Joint pain Runny nose Fast or slow heartbeat Fever Symptoms flu Oral ulcers Cough Convulsions Asthenia Loss of appetite Abdominal pain, upset stomach Psychiatric disorders Before prescribing medication, doctors always weigh the benefits and effectiveness of Zemplar drug more than the risk of side effects. However, some cases when using Zemplar can still occur unwanted effects. In addition, when unusual signs appear after taking the drug and especially when a severe allergic reaction is accompanied by signs such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, swelling of the face, throat and tongue. , rash or itching,... In this case, the patient or family member should immediately call the medical staff for timely treatment.

4. Some notes when using Zemplar

Some notes when using Zemplar include:
Inform your doctor about any history of hypersensitivity, allergy to Zemplar or any other allergies. Zemplar may contain inactive ingredients and could cause an allergic reaction or other serious problems. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking including herbs, prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements, other foods, preservatives or dyes. Zemplar should be used with caution in patients with high blood pressure, liver disease, electrolyte imbalances such as decreased levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood, increased vitamin D, heart disease, epilepsy, etc. If you are breastfeeding, watch out for signs of hypercalcemia in your baby, such as aborting, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or seizures. Perform periodic tests such as calcium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone, ... during treatment with Zemplar. If you forget to take a dose, take the missed dose as soon as possible. In addition, if the time of remembering is close to the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue taking the medicine as scheduled. Users should absolutely not arbitrarily take the drug twice the dose more than the treatment regimen. Overdosing on Zemplar can cause serious symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, weakness,...

5. Drug interactions

Drug interactions can decrease the effectiveness of Zemplar, or increase the effect of unwanted effects. Be sure to tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking including vitamins, prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and other herbal products. Never stop taking, start or change the dose of any medicine without your doctor's approval.
Some drugs that may interact with Zemplar include:
Burosumab Other vitamin D products such as ergocalciferol Aluminum-containing products such as some antacids, phosphate binders Corticosteroids Certain medications reduce absorption of vitamin D such as colestipol, cholestyramine, orlistat,... Antibiotics: telithromycin, clarithromycin Antifungal drugs: itraconazole, ketoconazole Antiviral drugs to treat HIV/AIDS: nelfinavir, ritonavir, indinavir, saquinavir,... In addition, drugs Zemplar may cause some test results to be erroneous, including cholesterol tests. Therefore, make sure the healthcare provider knows the patient is taking Zemplar.

6. How to store Zemplar

Store Zemplar at room temperature, away from light and away from moisture. Do not store Zemplar in a humid place or in the freezer. Different medicines will have different storage methods, so read Zemplar storage instructions carefully on the packaging, or ask your pharmacist. Keep Zemplar out of the reach of children and family pets. If the dose is past its expiry date or has been damaged and cannot be used anymore, the medicine should be disposed of according to the correct procedure. Do not arbitrarily dispose of Zemplar into an environment such as a plumbing or toilet unless requested to do so. Consult with your environmental waste company or pharmacist on how to safely dispose of Zemplar to help protect the environment. In summary, Zemplar is a synthetic form of vitamin D indicated in the treatment or prevention of overactive parathyroid glands or in patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis. However, Zemplar can cause some unwanted effects and drug interactions, so tell your doctor what medications you are taking to reduce the risk of unwanted effects and and at the same time increase the effectiveness of the treatment process.
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References: drugs.com, webmd.com, .Zemplar.com