Introduction

Brand name: Lucent
Generic name: Calcitriol
Strength: 0.25 mcg per capsule
Manufacturer: Renata Limited (Bangladesh)
Category: Vitamin D analog

Indications

Post-menopausal osteoporosis
Renal osteodystrophy (bone disease in chronic kidney disease)
Hypoparathyroidism (post-surgical, idiopathic, pseudo)
Secondary hyperparathyroidism in moderate to severe CKD (pre-dialysis)
Vitamin D–dependent rickets

Drug Class

Class: Vitamin D analog
Type: Active metabolite of Vitamin D3 (Calcitriol)

Mechanism of Action

Formed naturally in kidneys from 25-hydroxycholecalciferol.
Promotes intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphorus.
Regulates bone mineralization.
Acts on intestine, bone, kidney, and parathyroid glands.

Doses

Adults: Usually 0.25 mcg daily; dose may be adjusted depending on calcium levels and disease severity.
CKD patients: Dose individualized; close monitoring of calcium and phosphate required.
Children: Dose depends on condition and physician’s advice.

Benefits

Improves calcium absorption and bone strength.
Prevents and treats osteoporosis and rickets.
Reduces secondary hyperparathyroidism in CKD.
Enhances quality of life in patients with bone metabolism disorders.

Safety Advice

Common side effects: Hypercalcemia, headache, nausea, weakness.
Precautions: Regular monitoring of serum calcium and phosphate.
Avoid excessive calcium or Vitamin D supplements unless prescribed.

Renal Safety

Specifically indicated for CKD patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Dose adjustment required; monitor calcium and phosphate to avoid hypercalcemia.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed; safety data limited.
Lactation: Small amounts may pass into breast milk; caution advised.

Overdose

Symptoms: Hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, weakness, confusion, arrhythmia).
Management: Stop drug, restrict calcium intake, supportive care.
Severe cases may require hospitalization.

Summary: Lucent 0.25 mg capsule (Calcitriol) is a potent Vitamin D3 analog used to manage bone and mineral metabolism disorders, especially in CKD and osteoporosis. It is effective but requires careful monitoring of calcium and phosphate to ensure safety.