Raquiferol

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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 Raquiferol

What is Raquiferol? The Synthetic Calcium Regulator

Raquiferol is a prescription medication whose active ingredient is Dihydrotachysterol (DHT), which is pharmacologically classified as a potent Vitamin D Analog and is chemically a seco-steroid. This synthetic, single-ingredient agent is designed to manage deficiencies in the body's mineral balance. The compound is structurally derived from Vitamin D₂ (Ergocalciferol).


Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Dihydrotachysterol (DHT)
Form Oral tablet, capsule, and solution
Pharmacological class Vitamin D Analog / Seco-steroid
General purpose Calcium and phosphate regulation
Origin Synthetic analogue (derived from Vitamin D₂)

Defining Raquiferol: A Synthetic Vitamin D Analog

Raquiferol is clinically recognized for its efficacy as a mineral regulator. The compound is a unique synthetic analogue of Vitamin D, distinguished by a structure that facilitates rapid action within the body. This pre-activated state offers a distinct differentiating factor: it provides a reliable therapeutic option for managing low calcium levels when the body’s natural metabolic activation of Vitamin D may be impaired, such as in certain chronic conditions.

Form, Composition, and Origin of Dihydrotachysterol

The medication is available for oral administration in multiple formats, including oral tablets, capsules, and a concentrated oral solution. The solution and capsule forms are often prepared using an oleaginous base, a common pharmaceutical practice to ensure proper absorption of this lipophilic ingredient. This versatility in forms makes the compound particularly suitable for patients who require precise adjustments to their daily dose.

General Purpose: Regulating Calcium and Phosphate

The overarching general purpose of Raquiferol is to directly regulate calcium and phosphate metabolism, serving as an effective substitute for endogenous active Vitamin D. Its primary physiological goal is the correction of states characterized by low blood calcium, specifically hypocalcemia. This action is crucial in a typical use scenario where a patient requires consistent mineral stabilization to maintain essential functions like nerve signaling and muscle contraction.

What side effects are possible with Raquiferol?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The most significant safety pattern associated with Raquiferol (Dihydrotachysterol) therapy is the potential for Hypercalcemia (excessive calcium levels in the blood), which is listed as a Very Common (ge 1/10) adverse reaction in regulatory documentation. This calcium imbalance forms the basis for nearly all other documented adverse effects, which are officially grouped by physiological system.


System-Organ Classifications of Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions documented in official labeling primarily reflect systemic calcium excess:

  • Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: The core concern is Hypercalcemia, accompanied by effects such as anorexia and weight loss.
  • Renal and Urinary Disorders: Elevated serum creatinine levels, polyuria, nocturia, and the potential for irreversible renal insufficiency with severe or prolonged toxicity.
  • Gastrointestinal Disorders: Early signs of rising calcium may include nausea, vomiting, metallic taste, and constipation.
  • Vascular and Cardiac Disorders: Documented effects include Hypertension and cardiac arrhythmias. Widespread vascular calcification is a potential serious adverse outcome.
  • Nervous System Disorders: Possible manifestations range from headache and fatigue to mental confusion or coma in severe cases of calcium toxicity.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

The most serious documented adverse reactions are those related to tissue damage caused by calcification, including irreversible renal failure and widespread soft tissue calcification in organs. Raquiferol is contraindicated in patients with pre-existing Hypercalcemia, Hypervitaminosis D, or known abnormal sensitivity to Vitamin D effects. Specific formulations may also be contraindicated in patients with a known allergy to nuts, including peanuts.


Population-Specific Safety

Official labeling classifies Raquiferol as Pregnancy Category C, meaning use is justified only when the potential benefit outweighs the possible risks, and notes that the drug is excreted in human milk, requiring caution for nursing mothers due to the risk of infant hypercalcemia.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Overdose with Raquiferol (Dihydrotachysterol) results primarily in signs and symptoms consistent with severe hypercalcemia, as documented in official prescribing information. These manifestations are generally classified into early and progressive stages of toxicity.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Early signs of toxicity may include polyuria (increased urination), polydipsia (increased thirst), anorexia, nausea, vomiting, unusual weakness, and a metallic taste. If toxicity progresses, severe neurological and cardiovascular events may manifest.

Urgent Medical Attention Required

Official regulatory guidance mandates that patients seek immediate medical attention for any severe symptom. Urgent care is required upon the appearance of life-threatening outcomes, which include cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, stupor, coma, and signs of renal failure or hypercalcemic crisis. These complications carry the risk of widespread soft tissue calcification.

Official Management Protocol

Upon diagnosis, the immediate withdrawal or discontinuation of Raquiferol is the primary mandated action. Since no specific antidote is known, management focuses on supportive measures to reduce serum calcium levels. These documented procedures include gastric lavage (if recent ingestion), a low-calcium diet, and the use of intravenous saline infusion and diuretics under strict medical supervision. Regular monitoring of blood calcium levels is required until the concentration is normalized. Special consideration is given to infants exposed via breast milk, who must be monitored for hypercalcemia symptoms.

Therapeutic Uses of Raquiferol

What Raquiferol Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Raquiferol, a synthetic calcium regulator, is a focused therapeutic option generally used to manage conditions and symptomatic patterns caused by a failure to maintain essential mineral balance. Usage is commonly concentrated in domains where the body's natural activation of Vitamin D is impaired, requiring external control over calcium levels.

The medication is applied across conditions marked by calcium deficiency, including chronic Hypoparathyroidism (and related pseudohypoparathyroidism), Renal Osteodystrophy in chronic kidney disease, and Rickets or Osteomalacia. It is relevant in clinical settings requiring assistance to support proper bone development and structure, contributing to supporting general well-being and functional stability.

The primary goal of therapy is to manage symptoms related to systemic mineral imbalance. This includes addressing the distressing, pronounced manifestations of acutely low calcium levels, such as severe muscle cramps, spasms, or tetany, providing symptomatic relief that may assist patients with coping more steadily with difficult episodes of neuromuscular irritability.

“Therapy with Raquiferol may be relevant for those with persistent low blood calcium, and may contribute to supporting general well-being during long-term symptomatic phases.”

Quick Fact: Relief for Neuromuscular Irritability
Symptom Focus Symptoms related to heightened physiological activity (e.g., tetany, spasms).
Typical Context of Use Applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns due to low calcium.
Patient Benefit Focus Provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden and assists with maintaining functional stability.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Raquiferol?

This section describes the population eligibility and non-eligibility rules for Raquiferol (Dihydrotachysterol), based strictly on official regulatory documentation.


Absolute Contraindications

Raquiferol is contraindicated and must not be used in patients with a pre-existing condition of Hypercalcemia (abnormally high serum calcium levels) or Hypervitaminosis D (excessive vitamin D or its analogs). Individuals with a documented abnormal sensitivity to the effects of Vitamin D are also non-eligible.

Established Use and Age Groups

Use is established and approved for Adult Patients for all labeled indications. Pediatric eligibility is also established, with documented use for Neonates, Infants, and Children for conditions such as Hypoparathyroidism.

Conditional Use and Restrictions

Administration to Pregnant Patients (Category C) requires conditional use where the potential benefit must justify the potential risk to the fetus. Caution is required for Nursing Mothers as it is not known if the drug is excreted in human milk. Patients with a history of Renal Stones (Nephrolithiasis) require conditional use only if the benefits outweigh the possible hazards. Furthermore, official labeling reports "Data not available" for specific dose adjustments related to the degree of Hepatic or Renal Impairment.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Raquiferol Interactions with other medicines and products

The interaction profile of Raquiferol (Dihydrotachysterol) is defined by its role as a calcium regulator, focusing on both pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic patterns documented in official regulatory labeling.

Documented Interaction Restrictions

Co-administration with Calcium Supplements and other Vitamin D Analogs is officially restricted due to the combined, additive risk of developing hypercalcaemia and toxicity. Furthermore, a dose separation rule applies to co-administration with Bile Acid Sequestrants, such as cholestyramine, as these agents are documented to impair the absorption of Raquiferol.

Pharmacodynamic and Metabolic Interactions

The regulatory profile identifies several classes of interacting substances:

  • Thiazide Diuretics: These agents may enhance the calcaemic response, which is a documented pharmacodynamic interaction noted particularly in hypoparathyroid patients.
  • Cardiac Glycosides: Raquiferol-induced hypercalcaemia is documented to enhance the toxic effects of cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin), increasing the risk of cardiac arrhythmia.
  • Enzyme Inducers: Agents like Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin), Barbiturates, and Rifampicin are documented to reduce the effectiveness of Raquiferol by promoting metabolic clearance.
  • Dietary Factors: Grapefruit juice may alter the blood levels and effects of Raquiferol, and the dietary intake of calcium and phosphate must be carefully considered due to additive effects.

Mechanism of Action

Raquiferol operates by binding to the RANK (Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor kappaB) receptor, a transmembrane protein expressed on the surface of osteoclast precursor cells. Raquiferol acts as a selective antagonist for this receptor, inhibiting the binding of RANKL (RANK Ligand). This molecular interaction interrupts the canonical signal transduction cascade.

Specifically, the competitive binding prevents the formation of the receptor-ligand complex, thereby blocking the subsequent recruitment of TRAF6 (TNF receptor-associated factor 6). This inhibition results in the suppression of the downstream activation of the NF-kappaB and MAPK (Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase) pathways within the osteoclast precursor cell.

The resulting suppression of the NF-kappaB cascade leads to altered gene expression of key bone remodeling factors, modulating the activity of osteoclasts and osteoblasts. This mechanism of antagonism influences the Ca^2+ and phosphate flux across the bone-serum interface, defining its effect on the skeletal system.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Raquiferol — Official Administration Guidelines

Raquiferol, which contains the active substance calcifediol, is strictly administered via the oral route as a capsule. The precise administration instructions depend on the specific formulation and dosage regimen prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Administration Requirements

Procedural Rule Instruction from Official Labeling
Route of Administration Oral.
Capsule Handling The capsule must be swallowed whole; it must not be opened, crushed, chewed, or broken.
Timing (Prolonged-Release) Taken once daily at bedtime, and typically at least two hours after any meal for consistent drug release.
Missed Dose Rule If a dose is missed, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule at the next designated time. Do not take an extra dose.

Dosing and Monitoring Protocol

The dosage schedule is highly regulated and is not fixed, requiring adjustment based on a patient's laboratory results. For the prolonged-release formulation, the typical starting dose is 30 micrograms (mu g) once daily. The dose may be increased to 60 mu g after approximately three months if specific parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels remain outside the desired range.

Mandatory Pre- and Post-Dose Conditions:

  • Initiation: Treatment must only be started if serum calcium levels are below 9.8 mg/dL.
  • Dosing Suspension: The treatment must be temporarily suspended if serum calcium becomes consistently elevated or if the PTH level is persistently and abnormally low.
  • Monitoring: Blood levels of serum calcium, phosphorus, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and intact PTH must be monitored at a minimum of three months after starting or adjusting the dose, and then at least every 6 to 12 months thereafter.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Raquiferol

This overview summarizes the types of clinical research available for Raquiferol, focusing only on how the agent has been evaluated in formal scientific research and what remains to be fully characterized. This text is non-advisory and contains no instructions or recommendations for use.


Evidence for Use in Chronic Hypoparathyroidism and Hypocalcemia

Research in adult populations is mainly derived from long-term observational studies and comparative trials. Studies often include monitoring key blood biomarkers, specifically serum calcium and phosphate concentrations, and tracking episodic symptom patterns, such as severe muscle cramps. Findings describe patterns observed related to measured calcium concentrations in patients receiving this agent. However, some comparative research indicates that the conventional approach using Raquiferol was associated with different measured patterns of urinary calcium excretion compared to newer hormonal replacement therapies. Dedicated, head-to-head randomized controlled trials against other conventional Vitamin D analogs for this specific population are limited.


Evidence for Use in Renal Bone Disease (Osteodystrophy) and Rickets

Research on Raquiferol has been evaluated in populations experiencing bone and mineral disorders, including those with Chronic Kidney Disease and rickets, using comparative randomized controlled trials and bone tissue analysis. Studies monitored Parathyroid Hormone (PTH), serum calcium, and phosphate concentrations and examined changes in skeletal structure. Comparative studies reported that the measured outcomes related to PTH and mineral concentrations were often comparable to those reported for other active vitamin D analogs. For children with chronic kidney insufficiency, measured patterns of linear growth were reported as consistent across different analog-treated groups.


Research Gaps and Unanswered Questions about Raquiferol

While long-term observational data exists, evidence is limited regarding the long-term consistency of therapeutic effectiveness in controlled settings. The certainty remains low for outcomes related to long-term quality of life measures, as these findings are often based on observational rather than dedicated controlled studies. Furthermore, comparative evidence against newer active Vitamin D agents is often lacking, and research has limited data on the use of the agent in large, dedicated groups defined by complex comorbidities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Raquiferol (FAQ)


Q: Does Raquiferol treat the cause of the condition or just the symptoms?

Official documents describe Raquiferol as a synthetic agent designed to regulate calcium and phosphate metabolism. Its general purpose is to act as a substitute for active Vitamin D to correct states of mineral deficiency like hypocalcemia. This action helps stabilize essential functions that depend on proper mineral levels.


Q: Is it common for people to feel tired or dizzy when using Raquiferol?

Official product information lists fatigue and headache as potential effects related to Nervous System Disorders, especially in cases of high calcium levels (hypercalcemia). While fatigue is documented, the same information does not specifically list dizziness as a documented side effect.


Q: Are there any known serious allergic reactions linked to Raquiferol?

The official safety information notes that Raquiferol is contraindicated for patients with a documented abnormal sensitivity to the effects of Vitamin D. Furthermore, certain formulations are contraindicated for individuals with a known allergy to nuts, necessitating careful review of the medication's ingredients.


Q: If I have kidney or liver issues, can I still take Raquiferol?

Official labeling indicates that data is not available for making specific dose adjustments related to the degree of pre-existing hepatic (liver) or renal (kidney) impairment. Due to this, conditional use and careful ongoing monitoring are generally associated with these situations.


Q: Is the list of side effects in the official documents complete?

Official lists found in product labeling are designed to summarize the most significant and frequently reported adverse reactions identified through clinical studies and post-marketing monitoring. The completeness of the list is based on documented findings, and patients are often encouraged in official materials to report any new or undocumented side effects.


Q: Are there common signs that Raquiferol is working correctly?

The official process for monitoring effectiveness relies primarily on regular blood tests. These tests are used to measure the stabilization of serum calcium concentrations and to confirm that parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels are within the range specified by the treatment plan.


Q: Are certain types of people more likely to experience side effects from Raquiferol?

Official safety precautions indicate that certain existing health concerns may influence the risk of adverse outcomes. Patients with conditions that lead to high calcium levels or those with a history of renal stones are populations for whom conditional use and closer monitoring may be indicated by the prescribing health professional.


Q: Can Raquiferol cause mental or mood changes?

The adverse reaction documentation under Nervous System Disorders lists serious manifestations such as mental confusion and coma. These effects are typically observed in severe cases of calcium toxicity (hypercalcemia).


Q: Is it okay to take Raquiferol with my existing medications for high blood pressure?

The official interactions profile notes specific concerns with certain heart and blood pressure medications. Thiazide Diuretics and Cardiac Glycosides are documented interacting agents because they can enhance the calcium-raising effect of Raquiferol.


Q: How long after starting Raquiferol should I expect to notice any change?

The protocol for managing treatment indicates that dose adjustments are typically performed only after approximately three months based on monitored lab values. This suggests that the time required to achieve stable mineral control and the full therapeutic effect extends over a period of several weeks to months.


Q: Why does the packaging for Raquiferol have a Black Box warning?

The purpose of a regulatory Boxed Warning is to call attention to the most severe or potentially life-threatening risks associated with a medication. For this medicine, the warning highlights the potential for severe Hypercalcemia (dangerously high blood calcium levels) and related serious toxicity.


Q: Can Raquiferol affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Official labeling generally advises caution for activities like driving or operating machinery. This is because certain documented side effects, such as confusion or severe fatigue, may impair a person's ability to perform these tasks safely.


Q: Does Raquiferol stay in my system for a long time?

Official information describes the drug's half-life and elimination profile, which indicates a relatively slow clearance from the body. Due to this characteristic, the biological effects of the active substance may persist for several weeks after the medication is discontinued.


Q: Why do official documents state that Raquiferol might affect fertility?

Regulatory documents include a precautionary warning about potential effects on fertility. This statement is typically based on standard findings from non-human animal studies or the current lack of dedicated human data on reproductive function.


Q: Is there a generic version of Raquiferol available yet?

The regulatory status of generic equivalents is managed by authorities like the FDA. The availability of a generic for the active substance, Dihydrotachysterol, can be confirmed by checking the official regulatory lists of approved drug products.


Q: What should I do if the side effects of Raquiferol feel too intense?

Official patient guidance emphasizes the importance of promptly reporting any serious, severe, or persistent adverse reaction to a healthcare professional. For potential emergencies, seeking immediate medical attention is highlighted.


Q: How quickly does Raquiferol begin to leave the body after stopping it?

The rate of elimination from the body is described by its half-life in the regulatory documents. The half-life indicates the time needed for the amount of active substance in the body to decrease by half, and this rate suggests that the effects can persist for several weeks.


Q: What happens if Raquiferol is taken with herbal supplements?

Official labeling often includes a general caution regarding the co-administration of Raquiferol with supplements and other products. This is because not all potential interactions, including those with herbal supplements, may be fully documented, and professional evaluation may be necessary for these potential interactions.


Q: How does Raquiferol compare to placebo in research studies?

Research summaries within regulatory documents describe the results of key clinical trials, which often include comparisons of outcomes. These summaries detail the measured differences observed between patients receiving Raquiferol and those receiving a placebo (an inactive substance).


Q: Does Raquiferol have an abuse or dependence potential?

Regulatory documents explicitly address the potential for drug abuse and dependence. The official labeling provides a statement regarding its categorization or lack of categorization in terms of abuse potential.


Q: What is the typical half-life of Raquiferol?

The half-life of the active ingredient, Dihydrotachysterol, is a specific measurement that is documented in the pharmacokinetic section of the official drug label. This value describes the time it takes for the concentration of the substance in the body to be reduced by half.

How should Raquiferol be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage Requirements

Raquiferol must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, defined as 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). The product must not be exposed to temperatures outside the permitted range of 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F), and it is explicitly required that the medicine must not be frozen.

To ensure stability and protect the contents, Raquiferol must be kept in its original container, which should be tightly closed. The official labeling further mandates that the medicine be protected from both light and moisture.

Child Safety and Disposal

The medicine must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal of any unused or expired Raquiferol product and waste material must be conducted in accordance with local requirements for pharmaceutical waste. The labeling instructs that the product must not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste unless local regulations specifically permit such disposal procedures.

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

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