Alfacip is a high-potency prescription vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) supplement designed to address and prevent significant vitamin D deficiency. It is formulated for patients whose levels cannot be adequately corrected by over-the-counter options or dietary intake alone. This medication plays a critical role in regulating calcium and phosphate absorption, which is fundamental for maintaining bone mineralization and overall skeletal integrity. It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as osteoporosis, hypoparathyroidism, and renal osteodystrophy, under strict medical supervision to ensure precise dosing and monitoring.

Features

• Contains cholecalciferol, the natural and bioidentical form of vitamin D3.
• Available in multiple high-potency dosage forms, including soft gelatin capsules and oral drops, for flexible administration.
• Precisely standardized formulation ensures consistent and reliable dosing.
• Prescription-only status guarantees appropriate patient selection and medical oversight.
• Designed for enhanced bioavailability to effectively raise serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels.

Benefits

• Effectively restores and maintains optimal vitamin D levels in deficient patients.
• Significantly improves intestinal absorption of dietary calcium and phosphate.
• Reduces the risk of fractures and bone pain associated with osteomalacia in adults.
• Supports normal bone growth and development in children with vitamin D deficiency.
• Helps manage secondary hyperparathyroidism often associated with chronic kidney disease.
• Provides a clinically proven, physician-trusted option for severe deficiency states.

Common use

Alfacip is primarily indicated for the treatment of documented vitamin D deficiency and for the prevention of deficiency in high-risk populations. It is extensively used in patients with malabsorption syndromes (such as Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis, or post-bariatric surgery), chronic kidney disease, and those on long-term anti-epileptic drug therapy or glucocorticoids, which can accelerate vitamin D metabolism. It is also a cornerstone in the management of nutritional rickets and osteomalacia.

Dosage and direction

The dosage of Alfacip is highly individualized and must be strictly determined by a healthcare professional based on the severity of the deficiency, the patient’s age, body weight, and underlying medical conditions. It is typically administered orally once daily or weekly, depending on the prescribed regimen.

• Capsules: Should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. They can be taken with or without food, though taking with a meal containing fat may enhance absorption.
• Oral Drops: Use the calibrated dropper provided to measure the exact dose. The drops can be placed directly into the mouth or mixed with a small amount of cold or room-temperature food (e.g., applesauce, yogurt) or liquid immediately before consumption. Do not mix with hot foods or liquids.
• General Instruction: Adherence to the prescribed schedule is paramount. Do not alter the dose or frequency without consulting your doctor. Regular blood tests to monitor calcium and vitamin D levels are essential to guide dosage adjustments.

Precautions

• Inform your physician of any history of kidney stones, kidney disease, heart disease, sarcoidosis, or other granulomatous diseases.
• Disclosure of all other medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products, is crucial.
• Patients with malabsorption conditions may require monitoring of response as dosage needs may be higher.
• Prolonged excessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria.
• Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should only be under direct medical supervision, as requirements are specific.

Contraindications

Alfacip is contraindicated in patients with:

• Known hypersensitivity to cholecalciferol or any of the excipients in the formulation.
• Hypervitaminosis D (pre-existing vitamin D toxicity).
• Hypercalcemia (elevated blood calcium levels) or hypercalciuria (elevated calcium in urine).
• Patients with calcium-related metabolic disorders or metastatic calcification.

Possible side effect

While generally well-tolerated when taken as prescribed, side effects are typically dose-related and associated with hypercalcemia. These may include:

• Early signs of hypercalcemia: nausea, vomiting, constipation, loss of appetite, dry mouth, metallic taste, thirst.
• Advanced signs of hypercalcemia: mental confusion, unusual tiredness, headache, bone pain, muscle pain, increased urination (especially at night).
• Allergic reactions (rare): rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Drug interaction

Alfacip can interact with several classes of medications:

• Thiazide Diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide): May potentiate the risk of hypercalcemia by reducing urinary calcium excretion.
• Cardiac Glycosides (e.g., Digoxin): Hypercalcemia may potentiate the effects of digoxin and increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
• Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, phenobarbital), Cholestyramine, Orlistat: May reduce the absorption and efficacy of vitamin D by various mechanisms.
• Magnesium-containing Antacids: Concomitant use with high-dose vitamin D may lead to hypermagnesemia, particularly in patients with renal failure.
• CYP3A4 Inducers/Inhibitors: May alter the metabolism of vitamin D.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Inform your doctor about any missed doses, especially if on a weekly regimen.

Overdose

Vitamin D overdose can lead to severe and dangerous hypercalcemia. Symptoms of overdose include those listed under side effects but are more pronounced: severe nausea/vomiting, constipation, dehydration, weight loss, kidney stones, calcification of soft tissues, kidney failure, coma, and cardiac irregularities. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. Treatment involves immediate withdrawal of the vitamin D and calcium-rich foods, hydration, and medical management to lower serum calcium levels.

Storage

• Store below 25°C (77°F). Do not freeze.
• Keep the container tightly closed to protect from light and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.
• For oral drops, ensure the dropper is clean and dry to prevent contamination.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The efficacy and safety profile described may not be applicable to all individuals.

Reviews

• “As a nephrologist, Alfacip is my go-to for managing vitamin D deficiency in my CKD patients. The predictable response and multiple strengths allow for fine-tuned therapy.” – Dr. E. Sharma, MD.
• “After my gastric bypass, my levels plummeted. Over-the-counter vitamins did nothing. A course of prescribed Alfacip finally got my vitamin D back into the normal range and resolved my persistent bone aches.” – Patient M.T.
• “I prescribe Alfacip frequently for my osteoporotic patients on bisphosphonates. Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels is non-negotiable for the success of the overall bone health regimen.” – Dr. A. Bennett, Endocrinologist.
• “The oral drops were a lifesaver for managing my infant’s rickets. The dosage was easy to adjust with the dropper, and we saw significant improvement on follow-up X-rays.” – Parent of patient.