Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is Zemplar. Zemplar is vitamin D in the active form. We get vitamin D mostly from sunlight, and from a few foods. Once vitamin D enters the body, the kidneys make it active, so the body can use it. People who have kidney disease, though, cannot make it active. Zemplar gives your body vitamin D that does not need the kidneys. You should know that Zemplar is not the same as vitamin D that you can buy without a prescription.  

Vitamin D is important because it keeps a healthy balance of 3 things in your body -- calcium, phosphorus and a hormone called 'PTH'. Without vitamin D, these levels can get off balance and cause serious problems. These include weak bones, joint pain, heart attacks, skin problems, and more. 

Your doctor will order blood tests to check levels of calcium, phosphorus and PTH. Your doctor may need to change your dose of Zemplar. It is a delicate balance to make sure that the dose is not too much, or too little. 

For best results with Zemplar, you should follow these 6 important steps:
•	Take Zemplar exactly as your doctor tells you to. 
•	Follow the exact diet that your doctor and dietician recommend. Remember - avoid food and drinks that are high in phosphate.
•	Take your other medicines exactly as directed. 
•	Tell your kidney care team if you think you are having side effects. Side effects include diarrhea, nausea, a runny nose, sore throat, and swelling in your ankles. They also include high blood pressure, and feeling dizzy or tired.
•	Always check with your kidney doctor before you take ANY vitamins, supplements or other medicines. 
•	And, work closely with your kidney team to understand your condition and this medicine.