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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking paricalcitol (Zemplar)?

Do not use this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to vitamin D, or if you have:

• high levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia); or
• high levels of vitamin D in your body (vitamin D toxicity).

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a paricalcitol dose adjustment or special tests:

• high blood pressure;
• liver disease; or
• an electrolyte imbalance.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether paricalcitol will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication..

Your paricalcitol dose needs may change if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take paricalcitol (Zemplar)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Paricalcitol is sometimes taken daily, and sometimes taken every other day. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.

You may take this medication with or without food.

While using paricalcitol, you may need blood tests at your doctor's office. Visit your doctor regularly.

Paricalcitol is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include a special diet. It is very important to follow the diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutrition counselor. You should become very familiar with the list of foods you must eat or avoid to help control your condition.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, light, and heat.

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