Alfacalcidol (or 1-hydroxycholecalciferol) is a vitamin D analogue used in human supplementation and as a poultry feed ingredient. It is a drug that contains a synthetic type of vitamin D. It is also known by the brand name “One-Alpha” and belongs to the vitamin D analog class of medicines. Alfacalcidol is primarily used to treat disorders with calcium and phosphorus metabolism in the body.
Although alfacalcidol has a smaller effect on calcium metabolism and parathyroid hormone levels than calcitriol, it has a considerable influence on the immune system, especially regulatory T cells. It is thought to be a more effective type of vitamin D administration, owing to its substantially longer half-life and lower kidney load.
It is the most usually administered vitamin D metabolite for patients with end-stage renal disease because compromised renal function impairs the ability to carry out the second hydroxylation step required for the synthesis of the physiologically active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Because alfacalcidol is an active vitamin D3 metabolite, it does not require the second hydroxylation step in the kidney.
It was patented in 1971 and approved for medical use in 1978.
Here are some key uses and information about alfacalcidol:
- Treatment of Vitamin D Deficiency: It is used when there is a deficiency of active vitamin D in the body. It helps the body absorb more calcium from the intestines and helps regulate calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood.
- Osteoporosis: It may be prescribed for the treatment of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by the weakening of bones, to increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.
- Chronic Kidney Disease: It is used in patients with chronic kidney disease to help regulate calcium and phosphorus levels, as kidney disease can lead to imbalances in these minerals.
- Hypoparathyroidism: It is used to treat hypoparathyroidism, a disorder in which the parathyroid glands fail to produce adequate parathyroid hormone, resulting in low calcium levels.
- Secondary Hyperparathyroidism: In cases of secondary hyperparathyroidism, which can occur with chronic kidney disease, alfacalcidol may be administered to assist manage increased levels of parathyroid hormone.
It is critical to take alfacalcidol exactly as prescribed by a healthcare practitioner, as the dosage can vary based on the illness being treated. It, like any prescription, may have adverse effects and interactions with other drugs, so it’s critical to follow your doctor’s instructions and report any unexpected symptoms or reactions while using it. Always seek tailored information and advice from a healthcare expert before using alfacalcidol.
