Calcitriol 0.25 mcg: uses, price & cheaper substitutes
Prescription required (Schedule H)
Common uses: Low calcium and bone disease in people whose kidneys or parathyroid glands are not working normally; Secondary hyperparathyroidism in kidney disease, as prescribed.
Listed MRPs range from ₹2.79 to ₹38.98 per capsule across 7 listings. Use only on a doctor's prescription.
Price comparison
| Brand | Manufacturer | Pack | MRP | ₹ / capsule | As on |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calcitriol Capsules IP 0.25mcgJan Aushadhi | Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) | 10 | ₹27.85 | ₹2.79 | 19 October 2026 |
| Ostriol | Aristo Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd | 10 | ₹48.28 | ₹4.83 | 19 October 2026 |
| Calcilol 0.25 | Prevego Healthcare & Research Private Limited | 10 | ₹108.00 | ₹10.80 | 19 October 2026 |
| Calcit SG | Zydus Cadila | 10 | ₹127.31 | ₹12.73 | 19 October 2026 |
| Laretol | La Renon Healthcare Private Limited | 10 | ₹155.60 | ₹15.56 | 19 October 2026 |
| Caltive | Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 10 | ₹293.20 | ₹29.32 | 19 October 2026 |
| Rocaltrol 0.25 | Abbott | 10 | ₹389.84 | ₹38.98 | 19 October 2026 |
MRPs as printed/listed on the date shown; actual price may vary.
Uses
- Low calcium and bone disease in people whose kidneys or parathyroid glands are not working normally.
- Secondary hyperparathyroidism in kidney disease, as prescribed.
- Rickets, osteomalacia and some inherited phosphate disorders, on a specialist's advice.
How to take it
Take calcitriol exactly as prescribed – usually once a day or once every other day in the morning, with or without food. Your doctor will probably start with a low dose and adjust it according to your blood calcium. Calcitriol is the active form of vitamin D and works quickly, so it can raise calcium more easily than ordinary vitamin D3; you will need regular blood tests. It works only if you get the right amount of calcium from food – too much can cause side effects, too little can make it ineffective – so follow your doctor's diet advice. If you do not have kidney disease, drink plenty of fluids. Do not take other vitamin D or calcium products unless your doctor approves.
Side effects
Common
- Headache or weakness.
- Upset stomach or dry mouth.
- Muscle or bone pain.
- Metallic taste.
Serious
Stop and get medical help urgently if you notice any of these.
- High calcium – feeling tired, difficulty thinking clearly, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, increased thirst or urination.
- Irregular heartbeat, confusion or seeing or hearing things that are not there – get urgent medical help.
- Painful urination, pale fatty stools, or yellow skin or eyes.
- Allergic reaction – rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Safety information
Alcohol
No direct interaction; heavy drinking harms bones and the liver, so limit it.
Pregnancy
Use in pregnancy only if your doctor prescribes it. MedlinePlus advises not to breastfeed while taking calcitriol.
Kidney problems
Often prescribed in kidney disease, but only by your doctor with regular blood calcium and phosphate checks. Ask how much fluid you should drink.
Liver problems
Tell your doctor if you have or have had liver disease.
Children
Used in children only under a specialist, with blood tests.
Missed dose
Take it as soon as you remember unless the next dose is nearly due – then skip it. Do not double up.
Interactions
- Other vitamin D supplements (including 60K capsules and sachets) – risk of high calcium; do not combine without your doctor.
- Calcium supplements – take only as your doctor advises, since calcitriol increases calcium absorption.
- Antacids, laxatives or supplements containing magnesium – tell your doctor before using them.
- Other medicines – take calcium-containing products 1–2 hours apart from other tablets, as calcium can reduce their effect.
Frequently asked questions
Rocaltrol 0.25 mcg uses
Rocaltrol contains calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D. It is used for low calcium and bone disease in people with kidney or parathyroid problems, and for secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Calcitriol vs vitamin D3 – what is the difference?
Vitamin D3 must be activated by the liver and kidneys; calcitriol is already active. That is why calcitriol is used when the kidneys cannot activate vitamin D, and why it needs blood calcium monitoring.
Is calcitriol a prescription medicine?
Yes. Calcitriol should be taken only on a doctor's prescription, with regular blood tests.
When should I take calcitriol?
Usually once a day or every other day in the morning, with or without food, exactly as your doctor prescribes.
Calcitriol side effects
Most serious problems come from high calcium – tiredness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, constipation, thirst and passing urine often. Call your doctor if you notice them.
Can I take calcitriol with calcium tablets?
Only if your doctor advises it. Calcitriol increases calcium absorption, so extra calcium can push levels too high.
Can I take calcitriol and vitamin D3 60K together?
Not without your doctor. Combining them raises the risk of high calcium.
Can I breastfeed while taking calcitriol?
MedlinePlus advises not to breastfeed while taking calcitriol. Discuss feeding options with your doctor.
Sources
- MedlinePlus – Calcitriol (19 October 2026)
- NHS – Vitamin D (19 October 2026)
- MedlinePlus – Calcium carbonate (19 October 2026)
- NPPA Pharma Sahi Daam (ceiling prices) (19 October 2026)
- PMBI Jan Aushadhi Product & MRP List (19 October 2026)
Medyzen Editorial Team · Last updated
This page is general information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without asking a doctor or pharmacist. Terms