Alfacip is a high-potency prescription medication containing the active form of Vitamin D, Alfacalcidol. Designed for patients with impaired renal function or specific metabolic disorders, it ensures efficient calcium absorption and bone mineralization without requiring hepatic activation. This targeted therapy supports skeletal integrity, reduces fracture risk, and helps manage secondary hyperparathyroidism in chronic kidney disease. Trusted by nephrologists and endocrinologists worldwide, Alfacip delivers predictable, clinically validated outcomes for individuals with compromised Vitamin D metabolism.

Features

• Contains Alfacalcidol (1-alpha-hydroxy Vitamin D₃), a bioactive analog
• Available in 0.25 mcg and 0.5 mcg soft gelatin capsules
• Rapid onset of action due to pre-activated formulation
• Does not require renal hydroxylation for efficacy
• Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical GMP standards
• Stable shelf life with appropriate storage conditions

Benefits

• Promotes effective intestinal calcium absorption, reducing hypocalcemia risk
• Supports normal bone remodeling and minimizes osteomalacia in renal patients
• Helps regulate parathyroid hormone levels, preventing secondary hyperparathyroidism
• Reduces incidence of pathological fractures and bone pain
• Improves musculoskeletal strength and overall quality of life
• Provides predictable pharmacokinetics with individualized dosing flexibility

Common use

Alfacip is primarily indicated for the management of:

• Hypocalcemia in patients with chronic renal failure
• Renal osteodystrophy
• Hypoparathyroidism
• Osteoporosis in patients with Vitamin D resistance or malabsorption syndromes
• Nutritional rickets/osteomalacia unresponsive to conventional Vitamin D therapy

Dosage and direction

Dosage must be individualized based on serum calcium, phosphate, and parathyroid hormone levels. The typical initial adult dose is 0.25–1.0 mcg daily, adjusted at 2–4 week intervals. Pediatric dosing is weight-based (0.01–0.05 mcg/kg/day). Administer orally with food to enhance absorption. Regular monitoring of serum calcium, phosphorus, and creatinine is essential. Dosage adjustments should be made gradually under medical supervision to avoid hypercalcemia.

Precautions

• Regular monitoring of serum calcium and phosphorus levels is mandatory
• Use with caution in patients on digitalis derivatives due to arrhythmia risk
• Monitor for early signs of hypercalcemia: nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness
• Consider reduced dosage in elderly patients due to potential decreased renal function
• Assess for soft tissue calcification through periodic imaging if hyperphosphatemia exists
• Pregnancy Category C: use only if potential benefit justifies potential fetal risk

Contraindications

• Hypercalcemia or hypervitaminosis D
• Known hypersensitivity to Alfacalcidol or any capsule components
• Metastatic calcification
• Vitamin D toxicity
• Severe renal impairment without dialysis (unless specifically indicated)
• Concurrent use with other Vitamin D analogs or high-dose calcium supplements

Possible side effects

Common (≥1/100):

• Hypercalcemia
• Hypercalciuria
• Pruritus
• Mild gastrointestinal discomfort

Less common (<1/100):

• Nausea, vomiting
• Constipation
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Skin rash
• Polydipsia, polyuria

Rare (<1/1000):

• Pancreatitis
• Nephrocalcinosis
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Conjunctival calcification

Drug interaction

• Thiazide diuretics: increased risk of hypercalcemia
• Digitalis glycosides: enhanced arrhythmogenic potential
• Magnesium-containing antacids: risk of hypermagnesemia
• Cholestyramine, mineral oil: reduced Alfacalcidol absorption
• Barbiturates, anticonvulsants: may increase catabolism of Vitamin D metabolites
• Corticosteroids: may antagonize Vitamin D effects

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one. Maintain regular dosing schedule. Contact your healthcare provider if multiple doses are missed for guidance on resumption.

Overdose

Manifests as hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, and hyperphosphatemia. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness, confusion, cardiac arrhythmias, and nephrocalcinosis. Treatment involves immediate discontinuation, low-calcium diet, hydration, and loop diuretics. Severe cases may require glucocorticoids, calcitonin, or dialysis. Serum calcium monitoring should continue for several weeks after overdose.

Storage

Store below 25°C in original packaging. Protect from light and moisture. Keep tightly closed. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children. Discard any unused medication after expiration date. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour into drainage.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment decisions. Dosage and administration should be determined by a qualified physician based on individual patient characteristics. The manufacturer is not liable for any adverse outcomes resulting from improper use.

Reviews

“After six months on Alfacip, my bone density scores have significantly improved. The dosing was carefully titrated, and I experienced no adverse effects once we found the right level.” — Maria K., osteoporosis patient

“As a nephrologist, I find Alfacip invaluable for managing renal osteodystrophy. Its predictable absorption and elimination make dose adjustments straightforward.” — Dr. A. Sharma, MD

“Transitioning from calcitriol to Alfacip resulted in better PTH control with less fluctuation in calcium levels. The capsule formulation is convenient for patients.” — Clinical Pharmacist, renal unit