calcitriol

[ kal-si-tree-awl, -ol ]

noun

1. Biochemistry. a vitamin D compound, C 27 H 44 O 3 , occurring in humans as a hormone derived from cholesterol, that acts in the regulation and absorption of calcium.
2. Pharmacology. a preparation of this compound, used in the treatment of osteoporosis and bone fracture.

Word History and Origins

Origin of calcitriol¹

1975–80; apparently calci(um) + triol