Bonacal
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate (Equivalent to Elemental Calcium 500 mg) + Vitamin D3
Manufacturer
Renata Limited
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
bonacal 500 mg tablet | ৳ 2.21 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Bonacal-500 mg tablet is a dietary supplement containing Calcium Carbonate and Vitamin D3. It is used to prevent and treat calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, promote bone health, and support various bodily functions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically, 1-2 tablets daily, or as directed by physician. Doses should be taken with meals.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, but caution should be exercised in patients with renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution and monitor calcium levels. Dosage adjustment may be required based on creatinine clearance and serum calcium levels. Consult a physician.
How to Take
Take the tablet orally with water, preferably with meals to enhance absorption and reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium is an essential mineral required for bone formation, nerve transmission, muscle contraction, and many other metabolic functions. Vitamin D3 helps the body absorb calcium from the gastrointestinal tract and regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body, promoting mineralization of bone.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Not acutely measurable for bone health benefits; onset of increased calcium absorption is within hours of Vitamin D administration.
Excretion
Calcium is primarily excreted via feces (unabsorbed portion) and urine (absorbed portion). Vitamin D3 metabolites are primarily excreted in bile and feces, with a small amount in urine.
Half life
Elemental calcium: variable, typically removed from plasma within hours, but incorporated into bone matrix. Vitamin D3: terminal half-life of 15-20 hours for cholecalciferol, 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 has a half-life of 2-3 weeks, and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol) has a half-life of about 4-6 hours.
Absorption
Calcium absorption is primarily in the small intestine, approximately 20-30% of ingested dose, influenced by Vitamin D levels, age, and dietary factors. Vitamin D3 is absorbed from the small intestine, primarily in the jejunum, and transported to the liver and fat stores.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized. Vitamin D3 is hydroxylated in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 and then in the kidneys to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcaemia (high levels of calcium in blood)
- Hypercalciuria (high levels of calcium in urine)
- Severe renal impairment
- Known hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate, Vitamin D3, or any excipients
Drug Interactions
Levothyroxine
Calcium can impair levothyroxine absorption. Administer at least 4 hours apart.
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can interfere with bisphosphonate absorption. Administer at least 30 minutes (or as advised) apart.
Cardiac Glycosides
Hypercalcaemia may potentiate the effects of cardiac glycosides, increasing risk of arrhythmias.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase risk of hypercalcaemia by reducing calcium excretion.
Tetracyclines and Fluoroquinolones
Calcium can chelate these antibiotics, reducing their absorption. Administer at least 2-3 hours apart.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypercalcaemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, thirst, polyuria, muscle weakness, confusion). In severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias and coma may occur. Treatment involves immediate discontinuation of the supplement, hydration, and medical management to correct calcium levels.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Calcium and Vitamin D are essential during pregnancy and lactation. This medicine can be used under medical supervision to meet increased nutritional needs. Do not exceed recommended doses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months from manufacturing date, depending on specific manufacturer and packaging.
Availability
Pharmacies, drug stores, supermarkets
Approval Status
Generally recognized as safe (GRAS)
Patent Status
Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials support the efficacy of calcium and vitamin D supplementation for bone health and deficiency states. Ongoing research continues to explore optimal dosages and new applications.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially in patients with renal impairment or on prolonged high-dose therapy)
- Serum phosphate levels
- Renal function tests (e.g., creatinine)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize proper patient education regarding diet and lifestyle.
- Monitor serum calcium levels in high-risk patients (renal impairment, concomitant medications).
- Consider patient preference for administration (with or without food) and ensure compliance.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed or directed on the label.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Take with food to minimize gastrointestinal upset and enhance absorption.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Bonacal-500 mg tablet is generally not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
- Engage in weight-bearing exercises to support bone health.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking, as they can negatively impact bone density.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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