1-Alpha-hydroxycholecalciferol in the treatment of hypocalcaemic psychosis

Two patients with profound hypocalcaemia due to uraemia and hypoparathyroidism respectively presented with alterations of mental state as their dominant symptom. 1-Alpha-hydroxycholecalciferol (1-alpha-OHD3) was chosen as the principal therapy because of its potency and rapid action. In both patients the plasma calcium was restored towards normal and the symptoms relieved within a very short period. The cases illustrate the role of 1-alpha-OHD3 in severe hypocalcaemia due to two different causes and provide experience on which to base treatment regimes for future patients similarly afflicted.