Medicine Information

Cabonate

Name: Cabonate
Brand: Cabonate
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet500 mgCalcium Supplement, AntacidATC: A12AA04

Generic Name

Calcium Carbonate 500 mg Tablet

Manufacturer

Generic Pharma Co.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
cabonate 500 mg tablet	৳ 2.50	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Cabonate 500 mg Tablet contains calcium carbonate, primarily used as a calcium supplement to prevent or treat low blood calcium levels. Calcium is vital for healthy bones, muscles, nervous system, and heart. It can also be used as an antacid to relieve heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach.

Uses & Indications

Treatment and prevention of calcium deficiency

Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis

Adjunct in the treatment of rickets and osteomalacia

Relief of heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach (as an antacid)

Dosage

Adults

As a calcium supplement: 500 mg to 1000 mg daily, usually in divided doses. As an antacid: 500 mg to 1500 mg as needed, not exceeding 7.5 g in 24 hours.

Elderly

Similar to adult dosage, but caution advised with renal impairment; monitor serum calcium levels.

Renal_impairment

Use with caution. Dosage adjustments may be necessary. Monitor serum calcium and phosphate levels closely due to increased risk of hypercalcemia and calcium accumulation.

How to Take

Take orally. For calcium supplementation, it is generally recommended to take with food to enhance absorption. For antacid use, it can be taken as needed, often after meals or at bedtime. Chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing.

Mechanism of Action

As a calcium supplement, it provides elemental calcium necessary for bone formation, muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and various metabolic functions. As an antacid, it neutralizes stomach acid by reacting with hydrochloric acid to form calcium chloride, water, and carbon dioxide, thereby increasing gastric pH.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Antacid effect is rapid (within minutes). Calcium supplement effect is gradual (days to weeks).

Excretion

Unabsorbed calcium is excreted in feces. Absorbed calcium is primarily excreted via kidneys and some in feces.

Half life

Calcium's half-life is not easily defined as it is a physiological ion, but its levels are homeostatically regulated.

Absorption

Primarily absorbed from the small intestine, enhanced by vitamin D. Requires stomach acid for optimal absorption.

Metabolism

Not metabolized in the classical sense as it is a mineral.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels)
Severe renal impairment
Hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate
Hypercalciuria (high urinary calcium)

Drug Interactions

Iron supplements

May decrease iron absorption; take calcium and iron supplements at least 2 hours apart.

Tetracyclines (e.g., Doxycycline)

Reduces absorption of tetracyclines; take calcium carbonate at least 2-4 hours apart.

Bisphosphonates (e.g., Alendronate)

Reduces absorption of bisphosphonates; take calcium carbonate at least 30 minutes to 2 hours apart.

Fluoroquinolones (e.g., Ciprofloxacin)

Reduces absorption of fluoroquinolones; take calcium carbonate at least 2-4 hours apart.

Thyroid hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine)

Reduces absorption of thyroid hormones; take calcium carbonate at least 4 hours apart.

Thiazide diuretics (e.g., Hydrochlorothiazide)

May increase risk of hypercalcemia due to reduced calcium excretion.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe constipation, nausea, vomiting, confusion, increased urination, and weakness (symptoms of hypercalcemia). In severe cases, it can lead to kidney stones, kidney failure, or milk-alkali syndrome. Treatment involves discontinuing calcium, hydration, and medical management of hypercalcemia.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Calcium is an essential nutrient during pregnancy and lactation. This medication can be used if medically indicated, but always consult a doctor before use. Ensure total daily calcium intake from all sources does not exceed recommended upper limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per strip30 tablets per box

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.

Availability

Pharmacies, drugstores, supermarkets

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)

Patent Status

Off-patent

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Calcium carbonate has been extensively studied for its roles in calcium supplementation and as an antacid. Ongoing research continues to explore its efficacy in various bone health conditions and potential new applications.

Lab Monitoring

Serum calcium levels (especially with long-term use or in patients with renal impairment)
Renal function tests (for patients with kidney issues)
Serum phosphate levels (if also taking phosphate binders)

Doctor Notes

Advise patients to report symptoms of hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, excessive thirst, muscle weakness, confusion).
Monitor serum calcium and renal function in patients on long-term therapy or with renal impairment, especially those also on vitamin D supplements.
Counsel on potential drug interactions, particularly with tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, thyroid hormones, and bisphosphonates; advise staggered dosing.
Emphasize the importance of adequate hydration to prevent kidney stones.

Patient Guidelines

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor or as directed on the label.
If using as an antacid, chew the tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting your doctor.
Inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking.
Report any symptoms of hypercalcemia like severe constipation, nausea, vomiting, or excessive thirst.

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

This medication is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
Regular weight-bearing exercise can help maintain bone density.
Ensure adequate vitamin D intake through diet, sun exposure, or supplements, as it aids calcium absorption.
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which can negatively impact bone health.