Doxercalciferol is a synthetic (man- made) form of vitamin D. Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and for the functioning of calcium in the body.

Doxercalciferol is used to help maintain healthy levels of parathyroid hormone in people with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis.

Doxercalciferol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not use doxercalciferol if you are allergic to it, or if you have high levels of vitamin D or calcium in your body.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver disease;
• a vitamin D deficiency; or
• high levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

If you breast-feed while receiving doxercalciferol injection, watch for signs of hypercalcemia in your baby (such as feeding problems, vomiting, constipation, or seizure).

Doxercalciferol is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

Use Hectorol (Doxercalciferol (Oral/Injection)) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; chest discomfort, difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using doxercalciferol and call your doctor at once if you have:

• chest pain, slow heartbeats;
• high calcium levels--nausea, vomiting, constipation, increased thirst or urination, confusion, lack of energy, weight loss, tiredness;
• signs of infection--fever, chills, flu-like symptoms, warmth, redness, vomiting, diarrhea, pain or burning when you urinate;
• low red blood cells (anemia)--pale skin, feeling light-headed or short of breath, cold hands and feet; or
• dehydration symptoms--feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and dry skin.

Common side effects may include:

• numbness, tingling, burning pain;
• infections, not feeling well;
• cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, cough;
• itching;
• headache, dizziness, weakness;
• depressed mood, trouble sleeping;
• upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, constipation;
• feeling short of breath;
• swelling; or
• muscle stiffness.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Avoid using any vitamin D or calcium supplements without your doctor's advice.