1alpha-hydroxyvitamin D3 in the long-term management of hypoparathyroidism and pseudohypoparathyroidism.

Normocalcaemia was restored and maintained in eleven hypoparathyroid and two pseudohypoparathyroid patients treated for up to 36 months with 1alpha-hydroxyvitamin D3. It was found to be a potent compound, maintenance doses ranging from 4 microgram weekly to 2 microgram daily. Supplementary oral calcium was used in acutely and profoundly hypocalcaemic patients but was given to only two patients as part of long-term therapy. Hypercalcaemic episodes occurring during treatment were of short duration and could be controlled by withdrawal of medication alone.