Bio-D3 Plus Capsule

Description

Product Description

Bio-D3 Plus Capsule is a softgel formulation that provides Calcitriol 0.25 mcg and 200 mg of elemental calcium derived from calcium carbonate. Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd. manufactures and markets the product.

Unlike ordinary Vitamin D supplements that contain cholecalciferol, Calcitriol is the biologically active form of Vitamin D and acts directly on Vitamin D receptors in the body. This allows it to influence calcium and phosphate balance more directly. The calcium component provides the mineral required for maintaining normal bones, muscles and nerve function.

Bio-D3 Plus may be selected when a patient’s condition requires active Vitamin D together with calcium, including certain disorders involving impaired calcium metabolism, reduced calcium levels or increased nutritional requirements. Because Calcitriol can raise blood calcium levels, treatment is generally individualized and may involve laboratory monitoring.

Uses

• Treatment of calcium deficiency when active Vitamin D supplementation is appropriate.
• May be prescribed in selected cases of osteomalacia or other disorders related to inadequate mineralisation.
• Used in some patients with hypocalcaemia associated with impaired Vitamin D metabolism.
• May be included in treatment plans for certain bone disorders.
• Can be prescribed when calcium supplementation together with Calcitriol is considered clinically appropriate.

Key Benefits

• Provides Calcitriol, an active Vitamin D metabolite, rather than relying solely on conversion of ordinary Vitamin D.
• Supplies 200 mg of elemental calcium per capsule.
• Supports calcium absorption and regulation of calcium-phosphate balance.
• Helps provide nutrients required for normal bone mineralisation.
• Combines active Vitamin D and calcium in a single softgel formulation.

How to Use

• Take Bio-D3 Plus exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Swallow the softgel whole with water.
• Take it with food or at the time recommended by your doctor.
• Follow the prescribed duration and monitoring plan for your specific condition.
• Do not take additional calcium or Vitamin D supplements unless your doctor has advised them.
• Do not increase the amount on your own because Calcitriol has a narrow therapeutic range.
• If you miss a dose, follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s instructions rather than taking an extra capsule without advice.

How It Works

Calcitriol binds to Vitamin D receptors and regulates genes involved in calcium and phosphate absorption and metabolism. It increases the intestine’s ability to absorb calcium and phosphate, helping maintain the mineral supply needed for normal bone formation and other physiological processes. The calcium supplied by Bio-D3 Plus provides the mineral itself, while Calcitriol helps the body use and regulate it more effectively. The combined action is particularly relevant when normal Vitamin D activation or calcium balance is impaired.

Side Effects

• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Abdominal discomfort.
• Constipation.
• Loss of appetite.
• Headache.
• Weakness or fatigue.
• Increased thirst.
• Frequent urination.
• High blood calcium levels.

Contact your doctor if side effects persist or if you develop symptoms suggestive of excessive calcium levels.

Precautions & Warnings

• Calcitriol can cause hypercalcaemia and hypercalciuria, which may lead to serious complications if treatment is excessive or not appropriately monitored. Seek urgent medical attention for persistent nausea, vomiting, severe weakness, confusion, unusual thirst, frequent urination or significant abdominal discomfort.
• Do not take additional calcium or Vitamin D products without your doctor’s approval because combined supplementation can raise calcium levels excessively.
• Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, kidney stones, hypercalcaemia or a history of abnormal calcium levels.
• Inform your doctor if you have disorders affecting the parathyroid glands or other conditions that alter calcium metabolism.
• Blood calcium, phosphate and kidney function may need to be monitored during treatment, particularly when Calcitriol is used for an extended period.
• Tell your doctor about medicines such as thiazide diuretics, digoxin, other Vitamin D preparations or calcium-containing products because they may affect calcium balance or increase the risk of adverse effects.
• Avoid taking large amounts of magnesium-containing products unless advised by your doctor, particularly if kidney function is impaired.
• Inform your doctor about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, vitamins and supplements you take.
• Consult your doctor before using Bio-D3 Plus during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart rhythm problems, especially when taking medicines affected by changes in blood calcium.
• Do not continue supplementation beyond the prescribed duration without medical review.
• Seek medical advice if symptoms of calcium deficiency continue despite treatment or if unusual symptoms develop while taking the capsule.

Storage Instructions

• Store below 25°C.
• Keep the softgel capsules in their original blister until use.
• Protect from moisture, excessive heat and direct sunlight.
• Keep the medicine in its original packaging.
• Keep out of reach and sight of children.
• Do not use the capsules after the expiry date printed on the package.

FAQs

Q: What is Bio-D3 Plus Capsule used for?
A: Bio-D3 Plus is prescribed for calcium deficiency and selected disorders requiring Calcitriol together with calcium supplementation.

Q: What does Bio-D3 Plus Capsule contain?
A: Each softgel capsule contains Calcitriol 0.25 mcg and elemental calcium 200 mg derived from calcium carbonate.

Q: Is Bio-D3 Plus a prescription medicine?
A: Yes. Bio-D3 Plus is a prescription product and should be taken according to your doctor’s instructions.

Q: Is Calcitriol the same as regular Vitamin D3?
A: No. Calcitriol is the active form of Vitamin D, while commonly used Vitamin D3 supplements contain cholecalciferol, which must undergo conversion in the body.

Q: Can Bio-D3 Plus increase calcium levels?
A: Yes. Calcitriol can increase calcium absorption and may cause abnormally high blood calcium if used excessively. Your doctor may recommend blood tests during treatment.

Q: Who manufactures Bio-D3 Plus Capsule?
A: Bio-D3 Plus Capsule is manufactured and marketed by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd. The commonly listed presentation contains 15 softgel capsules.