Cal-C Plus
Generic Name
Calcium (as Dicalcium Phosphate) + Vitamin C (as Ascorbic Acid)
Manufacturer
Popular Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Description
Overview of the medicine
DC-Vit C is a combination supplement containing Dicalcium Phosphate and Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C). It is used to fulfill calcium and vitamin C deficiencies, support bone health, and boost immunity.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
1-2 tablets daily, or as directed by a physician.
Elderly
1-2 tablets daily, or as directed by a physician.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage adjustment may be required; consult a physician.
How to Take
Tablets can be taken with or without food. It is generally recommended to take with meals to enhance absorption and minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium (as Dicalcium Phosphate) provides an essential mineral for bone formation, nerve transmission, muscle contraction, and blood clotting. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is a potent antioxidant, essential for collagen synthesis, tissue repair, wound healing, and enhancing immune function.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Nutritional effects are gradual over days to weeks.
Excretion
Calcium is primarily excreted via feces (unabsorbed) and urine. Vitamin C is largely excreted unchanged in the urine, with metabolites also excreted renally.
Half life
Vitamin C has a half-life of approximately 2-3 hours. Calcium's kinetics are complex, with varying half-lives depending on body compartments.
Absorption
Calcium absorption varies but is typically 20-40% of ingested dose, occurring primarily in the small intestine. Vitamin C is rapidly and efficiently absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily in the small intestine.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized. Vitamin C is partially metabolized to inactive metabolites, including oxalate.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation.
- Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in blood).
- Severe renal impairment.
- History of calcium oxalate kidney stones.
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
Hypercalcemia may precipitate digoxin toxicity.
Iron supplements
Vitamin C can enhance iron absorption, which might be beneficial but should be monitored in certain conditions like hemochromatosis.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcemia.
Tetracyclines & Quinolone antibiotics
Calcium can decrease the absorption of these antibiotics. Take calcium supplements at least 2-4 hours before or after these medications.
Thyroid hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine)
Calcium can interfere with the absorption of thyroid hormones. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
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 may include severe gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, constipation), hypercalcemia, and renal stones. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment involves fluid replacement and management of symptoms.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe in recommended doses during pregnancy and lactation. However, consult a physician before use to ensure appropriate dosage and to rule out any underlying conditions.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation.
- Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in blood).
- Severe renal impairment.
- History of calcium oxalate kidney stones.
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
Hypercalcemia may precipitate digoxin toxicity.
Iron supplements
Vitamin C can enhance iron absorption, which might be beneficial but should be monitored in certain conditions like hemochromatosis.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcemia.
Tetracyclines & Quinolone antibiotics
Calcium can decrease the absorption of these antibiotics. Take calcium supplements at least 2-4 hours before or after these medications.
Thyroid hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine)
Calcium can interfere with the absorption of thyroid hormones. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
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 may include severe gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, constipation), hypercalcemia, and renal stones. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment involves fluid replacement and management of symptoms.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe in recommended doses during pregnancy and lactation. However, consult a physician before use to ensure appropriate dosage and to rule out any underlying conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months from the date of manufacture
Availability
Available in pharmacies and drugstores nationwide
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Limited specific clinical trials for this exact combination, as components are well-established. Efficacy is supported by extensive research on calcium and Vitamin C individually.
Lab Monitoring
- Routine lab monitoring is generally not required for typical use. In cases of high doses or prolonged therapy, serum calcium levels may be monitored.
- Renal function may be monitored in patients with kidney impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Educate patients on the importance of balanced nutrition alongside supplementation.
- Advise patients to report any symptoms of hypercalcemia or severe gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Consider drug interactions, especially with antibiotics and thyroid hormones.
Patient Guidelines
- Take as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
- Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin C.
- Drink plenty of water.
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
DC-Vit C is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Incorporate weight-bearing exercises to support bone health.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption.
- Ensure adequate sun exposure for Vitamin D synthesis, which aids calcium absorption.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.