Adisterolo

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Adisterolo

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Adisterolo

Quick Facts

Feature Details
Drug Class Vitamin D analogue
Primary Use Treat vitamin D deficiency, hypocalcemia in chronic kidney disease, and related bone disorders
Alternative Name Calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3)

Understanding Adisterolo

Adisterolo is the trade name for calcitriol, which is the biologically active form of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Vitamin D is essential for the body to manage calcium and phosphate levels, which are critical for bone health and various metabolic functions.

When a person is exposed to sunlight, vitamin D3 is naturally produced in the skin and then undergoes two conversion steps in the liver and kidneys to become its potent, hormonal form, calcitriol. Adisterolo (calcitriol) bypasses these conversion steps, providing the active hormone directly to target tissues.

Mechanism and Uses

Adisterolo works by binding to the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR), a type of nuclear receptor found in cells throughout the body. Once bound, this complex modulates gene transcription, primarily enhancing the absorption of dietary calcium and phosphate from the gastrointestinal tract. This action elevates plasma levels of these minerals.

Medically, Adisterolo is prescribed to treat conditions where the body cannot produce adequate levels of active vitamin D, or when a more potent form is needed to regulate calcium. Key therapeutic uses include treating:

  • Hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) in patients undergoing chronic renal dialysis.
  • Secondary hyperparathyroidism associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
  • Certain metabolic bone diseases, such as osteodystrophy.

Regulatory References

  1. to target tissues

What side effects are possible with Adisterolo?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Adisterolo (calcitriol) is primarily structured around its potent effect on regulating calcium and phosphate levels in the body. The most commonly documented adverse reaction is Hypercalcemia (abnormally high blood calcium), which is classified as Very Common in regulatory documents, meaning it may affect more than 1 in 10 people. This effect is explicitly stated to be dose-dependent and may appear early in treatment or during dosage adjustments.

Official Adverse Reactions by System

Adverse reactions are officially grouped by the physiological systems affected, based on regulatory System-Organ Classes (SOCs):

System-Organ Class Common Adverse Reactions Uncommon Reactions
Metabolism & Nutrition Hypercalciuria Blood creatinine increased
Gastrointestinal Abdominal pain, Nausea Vomiting
Nervous System Headache

Serious Safety Considerations

The regulatory labeling documents serious, long-term risks associated with sustained high levels of calcium. These include the potential for Generalized Vascular Calcification and Nephrocalcinosis (calcium deposits in the kidney). For patients with chronic kidney disease, a specific and serious risk documented is Calciphylaxis.

Safety Restrictions and Limitations

Adisterolo is formally Contraindicated for individuals with pre-existing conditions of Hypercalcemia or documented evidence of Vitamin D Toxicity. Specific population safety notes caution that Immobilized Patients are particularly susceptible to hypercalcemia, and that other Vitamin D analogues should be withheld during treatment to prevent additive effects.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official overdose profile for Adisterolo (Calcitriol) is defined by the development of hypercalcemia syndrome (calcium intoxication). An overdose, often associated with excessive dosage or concurrent use of calcium supplements, results in signs that can be classified as early or late manifestations of elevated calcium levels.


Documented Manifestations

Early signs documented in regulatory sources include generalized weakness, headache, somnolence, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Progressive or severe overdose leads to late signs such as polyuria (increased urination), polydipsia (increased thirst), and serious outcomes including cardiac arrhythmias, irreversible renal insufficiency, and generalized vascular calcification. Regulatory documents specifically note that the risk of arrhythmias is increased in patients who are concurrently receiving digitalis.


Emergency Action Required

Because no specific antidote is known, management is supportive. If an overdose is suspected, the immediate mandatory actions are the discontinuation of Adisterolo therapy and the withdrawal of calcium supplements and any high-calcium diet. The official guidance states that emergency medical attention must be sought immediately, as progressive hypercalcemia may be severe enough to require urgent care. Monitoring of serum calcium levels daily is required until they return to normal.

Therapeutic Uses of Adisterolo

What Adisterolo Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Adisterolo is commonly used to help with symptoms related to physical discomfort and symptoms related to systemic imbalance, and is considered relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension. The overall approach aligns with the core principles of supportive care, which is defined as care given to improve comfort by aiming to provide assistance with symptoms and side effects.

The product is generally used across conditions presenting with acute episodes or conditions involving episodic or fluctuating manifestations, such as situations involving heightened physiological activity or organ-specific functional stress. It is applied in clinical scenarios where symptoms become temporarily overwhelming, and is relevant for managing symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive and create noticeable physiological strain. In these contexts, “it supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress,” and contributes to easing the overall symptom load. It provides supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities, which may help patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations.

Quick Fact: Supports Management of Symptom Clusters

Regulatory References

  1. National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Adisterolo?

Adisterolo (calcitriol) is officially documented for use in specific populations, primarily adults and pediatric patients diagnosed with hypocalcemia related to chronic renal dialysis, hypoparathyroidism, or pseudohypoparathyroidism.

Absolute Non-Eligibility (Contraindications)

The medicine is strictly contraindicated and must not be used in any patient with existing hypercalcemia (abnormally high calcium levels) or any sign of vitamin D toxicity. Use is also prohibited for patients with a known hypersensitivity to calcitriol or related vitamin D analogues.

Conditional and Restricted Use

  • Reproductive Status: The drug is not recommended for use by nursing mothers. During pregnancy (FDA Category C), it is used only when necessary and requires close monitoring of serum calcium levels.
  • Age-Group: Use is established for pediatric patients as young as one year old for selected conditions, with required monitoring of growth.
  • Comorbidity: Caution is advised for patients with hepatic impairment, as specific safety data have not been established. Patients on chronic renal dialysis are restricted from using the medicine concomitantly with magnesium-containing antacids.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Adisterolo (calcitriol) interacts with several medicinal products and supplements, primarily through effects on calcium metabolism and altered plasma concentration. Regulatory documents contraindicate the co-administration of Adisterolo with any other Vitamin D preparations or derivatives (e.g., alfacalcidol), due to the high, documented risk of hypervitaminosis D and severe hypercalcemia from additive effects.

Documented Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Interacting Substance Category Official Interaction Outcome
Thiazide Diuretics Increased risk of hypercalcemia due to additive effects on calcium reabsorption.
CYP3A4 Modulators Enzyme inducers (e.g., phenytoin) may reduce plasma concentration; inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) may increase plasma concentration.
Cardiac Glycosides (e.g., Digoxin) Hypercalcemia precipitated by Adisterolo may exacerbate or precipitate cardiac arrhythmias.
Bile Acid Sequestrants May impair the intestinal absorption of Adisterolo, potentially reducing its exposure.
Corticosteroids Inhibit the action of Vitamin D analogues on intestinal calcium absorption (functional antagonism).

Co-administration with high-dose calcium or phosphate supplements also elevates the risk of hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia. Furthermore, magnesium-containing drugs (e.g., antacids) are restricted or contraindicated in patients on chronic renal dialysis due to the specific risk of hypermagnesaemia.

Mechanism of Action

How Adisterolo Works

Adisterolo (Cholecalciferol) functions as a prohormone, requiring two sequential enzymatic hydroxylation steps in the liver and kidney to become the active hormonal metabolite, calcitriol. This metabolic cascade is subject to tight feedback control, involving enzymes like CYP24A1 and hormones such as FGF23, which regulate its concentration and establish a homeostatic constraint on the magnitude of receptor activation.

The active metabolite binds to the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR), a nuclear transcription factor, initiating VDR agonism. This interaction dictates the transcription of target genes across multiple cell types, including the intestine and bone.

This mechanism modifies signaling within the calcium and phosphate homeostasis pathway by promoting the synthesis of intestinal transport proteins, which increases mineral absorption. Simultaneously, VDR activation suppresses PTH secretion, and the coordinated action influences the regulation of plasma mineral concentrations and cellular activity within bone and excitable tissues.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to use Adisterolo

Adisterolo, whose active substance is Colecalciferol (Vitamin D₃), is a medication that requires adherence to your healthcare provider's specific instructions. It is critical to take this medicine exactly as prescribed, without adjusting the dose or frequency unless directed by a doctor. The prescribed dosage of Colecalciferol may vary significantly based on the individual's age, medical condition, and specific Vitamin D levels, as determined by clinical assessment and blood tests.

Administration Guidelines

  • Dosage and Timing: Adisterolo is typically taken once daily, but your doctor will establish the precise dosage and schedule. Consistency is important; aim to take the medicine at the same time each day to maintain stable levels in the body. If you are unsure about the correct timing, consult your pharmacist or physician.
  • With or Without Food: The tablets are generally taken orally with water and can be consumed with or without food. Taking the medication with a meal may sometimes help if it causes stomach upset.
  • Missed Dose: If a dose is forgotten, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Setting a daily reminder can help with adherence.
  • Duration of Therapy: Colecalciferol therapy may be required for an extended period, which could include the rest of a patient's life, depending on the underlying deficiency or condition being treated. Do not discontinue the medication without first consulting your healthcare provider, even if your symptoms improve.

Important Considerations

Before initiating treatment, inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This is essential, as Colecalciferol can interact with other drugs and may affect the absorption of other vitamins. Regular blood monitoring may be necessary to ensure the dosage is appropriate and effective without causing toxicity.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Adisterolo

Evidence for Use in Secondary Hyperparathyroidism

Research has primarily utilized Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) in studies evaluating Adisterolo (calcitriol) for use in conditions characterized by mineral imbalances associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). These studies focused on patients with high levels of Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and examined outcomes related to systemic imbalance. Studies monitored various biomarker shifts, including measurements of PTH, serum calcium, and serum phosphate. Trials reported consistent patterns where PTH measurements were recorded as being suppressed that were observed in some studies. Research was also studied for use in conditions involving bone pathology (Renal Osteodystrophy), with studies examining markers like Alkaline Phosphatase and changes in bone histology.


Evidence Gaps and Research Limitations

A number of trials documented that measurements of hypercalcemia (elevated calcium) and hyperphosphatemia (elevated phosphate) were recorded among study participants. The evidence base is centered on surrogate biochemical endpoints (mineral levels and PTH) rather than definitive, patient-relevant outcomes. While observational studies were used in research exploring long-term patterns related to outcomes such as measurements related to all-cause mortality, comparative evidence is lacking to definitively conclude that Adisterolo was associated with differences in long-term clinical events. Furthermore, data for certain groups remain insufficient, particularly for pediatric populations, and many primary RCTs have limited follow-up durations. The study results reflect the specific conditions under which they were conducted and research does not determine whether an individual will respond similarly.

Key Studies & References KDIGO 2017 Clinical Practice Guideline Update for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, Prevention, and Treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease–Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Adisterolo (FAQ)

Q: How quickly can I expect Adisterolo to start having an effect?

According to the official product information, after Adisterolo is taken orally, the concentration of the active substance in the blood typically reaches its peak within 3 to 6 hours.

Q: How long does the effect of one dose of Adisterolo last?

The pharmacologic activity of a single dose of the active ingredient is generally expected to last for about 3 to 5 days. This duration describes how long the drug's effect on the body's systems, primarily mineral balance, is maintained.

Q: Do many people report feeling tired after taking Adisterolo?

Official regulatory documents indicate that in cases where calcium levels become too high, symptoms such as weakness or feeling tired/sleepy (somnolence) have been reported. These effects are usually linked to an excessive level of the active substance or its effect on mineral balance.

Q: Does Adisterolo interact with common pain relievers like ibuprofen?

The official product labeling lists interactions with drugs that affect the body's calcium levels and certain metabolic enzymes (CYP3A4 modulators). However, common over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen are not explicitly listed in the major regulatory warnings.

Q: Can I take Adisterolo if I am also taking vitamins or herbal supplements?

Regulatory documents explicitly contraindicate the use of Adisterolo with any other Vitamin D preparations or derivatives due to the serious risk of high calcium levels. For other vitamins and herbal supplements, it is important that all prescription and non-prescription products are discussed with a healthcare provider before use.

Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks I should avoid while on Adisterolo?

Regulatory documents note that the use of a high-calcium or high-phosphate diet and uncontrolled intake of calcium supplements is restricted to mitigate the risk of excessive calcium levels. Additionally, some regulatory guidance notes that grapefruit may also alter plasma concentrations.

Q: Is Adisterolo safe to use for older adults (seniors)?

The official product information does not include specific studies detailing how the drug behaves (pharmacokinetics) specifically in the geriatric population. The appropriateness of use for older adults is subject to clinical determination based on the individual's condition and monitoring.

Q: Is there a link between Adisterolo and changes in mood?

Regulatory reports have associated high calcium levels, which can result from excessive vitamin D intake, with possible psychiatric disturbances and feelings of apathy. These effects are typically related to the drug's potent influence on mineral levels.

Q: Is Adisterolo safe to take before driving or operating machinery?

Due to the possibility of effects like headache and somnolence (drowsiness) listed in the official adverse reactions, caution is advised regarding activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.

Q: Does Adisterolo have a risk of dependence or withdrawal symptoms?

The active substance in Adisterolo is not designated as a controlled substance by regulatory bodies like the DEA. It is therefore not classified as having a risk of abuse or dependence.

Q: What is the purpose of the different strengths Adisterolo is available in?

The drug is manufactured in different strengths to allow for individualized dosage adjustments. This manufacturing allows for the required dose to be accurately determined based on a patient's clinical status and the results of regular blood monitoring of markers like serum calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH).

Q: Are there any specific lifestyle changes that are recommended while on Adisterolo?

Official patient information describes that adherence to dietary instructions and the correct use of any prescribed calcium supplementation are important measures. These actions are often required to maintain appropriate mineral balance while on the medication.

Q: Is there a generic version of Adisterolo available?

The regulatory documents confirm that calcitriol is the generic name for the active substance in Adisterolo. The generic version of this medication is available in the market.

Q: Does Adisterolo interfere with birth control pills?

Regulatory guidance suggests caution when Adisterolo is used alongside certain medications, including combination contraceptives. This is because some hormonal components may be processed by the same metabolic enzymes that affect the drug’s concentration.

Q: Can men and women use Adisterolo equally?

The regulatory documents state that controlled studies specifically examining the influence of gender on the body's processing of the active ingredient have not been conducted. Use in all non-pregnant/non-nursing adults is determined by the specific condition being treated.

Q: Can Adisterolo affect my blood pressure?

Official adverse reaction reports note that high calcium levels resulting from excessive Vitamin D intake have been associated with hypertension (high blood pressure). This is listed as a potential late-stage effect related to the drug's powerful regulatory action.

Q: What is Adisterolo's safety classification?

Adisterolo is classified as a HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG in the United States and carries an FDA Pregnancy Category C classification. This classification means the medication is restricted for use under the direction of a licensed healthcare provider.

Q: Does Adisterolo have a Black Box Warning, and what does it mean?

Regulatory labeling for the active ingredient, calcitriol, indicates that it does not carry a Black Box Warning. This type of warning represents the highest level of caution issued by the FDA for a medication.

Q: Is Adisterolo a well-known or newly developed drug?

The drug's active ingredient, calcitriol, has been formally approved by the FDA for systemic use since the 1980s. This history makes it an established medication.

Q: Does Adisterolo cause weight gain or loss?

Weight change is not listed as a common side effect. However, in cases of severe Vitamin D intoxication or dangerously high calcium levels, weight loss has been listed in regulatory reports as a possible late-stage adverse effect.

Q: Is Adisterolo suitable for vegetarians or vegans (related to inactive ingredients)?

The official description of the capsule formulation confirms the use of gelatin in the inactive ingredients. Due to the inclusion of gelatin, the capsule form of the medicine may not align with strictly vegetarian or vegan dietary requirements.

Q: Why must Adisterolo be kept out of reach of children?

The official labeling requires that Adisterolo be kept out of the sight and reach of children. This is because accidental overdose in children could lead to high and potentially toxic levels of calcium, which can be dangerous.

How should Adisterolo be stored and disposed of?

Adisterolo, which contains calcitriol, must be stored under specific conditions defined in regulatory labeling to maintain its efficacy and stability.

Storage Requirements

Item Regulatory Statement
Temperature Store at Controlled Room Temperature, 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F).
Protection Must be protected from light and moisture.
Packaging Keep the medicine in its original container or blister packaging until use.
Child Safety Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Any unused or expired product must be disposed of in accordance with local requirements for pharmaceutical waste. The medicine must not be disposed of in household trash or wastewater, such as by flushing it down the toilet. Patients should consult a pharmacist regarding proper take-back programs.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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