Vitamin D therapy is essential to patients with chronic kidney disease to aid in the absorption of calcium for the formation of healthy bone tissue. When kidney function declines, the kidneys are unable to perform these functions effectively. This is a result of the kidneys not being able to activate vitamin D to its active form, calcitriol. Vitamin D therapy is then needed to correct the low levels of calcium and increase activity of the parathyroid hormone.
When taking vitamin D therapy it is important to monitor parathyroid hormone and calcium levels to ensure that they are maintained in the target range to prevent the risk of calcification in tissues of the heart, brain, lungs, muscles and joints.
Here is a helpful handout from BC Renal Agency to help you learn about this medication!