Calcitriol is the active form of vitamin D (specifically 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃).
Mechanism of Action:
Calcitriol increases calcium and phosphate absorption from the intestines, promotes bone mineralization, and reduces parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion.
Uses:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD) (especially in dialysis patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism)
- Hypocalcemia
- Rickets or osteomalacia
- Hypoparathyroidism
Side Effects:
- Hypercalcemia
- Hyperphosphatemia
- Risk of vascular and soft tissue calcification
Formulation:
Available orally or intravenously (IV), often used in nephrology and endocrinology settings.
Let me know if you’d like a comparison with other vitamin D analogs (like alfacalcidol or ergocalciferol).
Links