Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

DIHYDROTACHYSTEROL (DHT) - ORAL

(dye-HYE-dro-tack-ISS-ter-ohl)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): DHT, Hytakerol

Uses

This is a form of vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin stored in the body. Vitamin D is necessary for normal bone development. This medication is used to treat certain types of muscle cramps (tetany) and to regulate parathyroid hormone in persons with hypoparathyroidism.

How To Use

This medication is taken by mouth. Carefully measure the liquid doses using the dropper provided or a marked medication spoon. Do not take this medication with mineral oil or magnesium containing antacids which may reduce its effects.

Side Effects

This medication is generally well tolerated. However, it may cause nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain, thirst, weakness, headache, bone pain, dry mouth or increased urination. Notify your doctor if you experience any of these effects while taking this medication. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: pre-existing heart disease, kidney disease, kidney stones, coronary artery disease (hardening of the arteries). This drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: digoxin, cholestyramine, colestipol, mineral oil, thiazide diuretics (water pills), phenobarbital, phenytoin, steroids. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include weakness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, dizziness, and ringing in the ears.

Notes

Foods rich in vitamin D include: fortified dairy products, eggs, sardines, cod liver oil, chicken livers and fresh-water fish. Vitamin D is also obtained from periodic exposure to the sun. It is important to maintain a well-balanced diet while taking this medication. Calcium supplements may be recommended in addition to this medication. Discuss this with your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture, heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication.