Calcitate
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate
Manufacturer
Hypothetical Pharma Inc.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| calcitate 300 mg tablet | ৳ 0.17 | ৳ 1.74 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Calcitate 300 mg Tablet is a mineral supplement containing calcium carbonate, an essential mineral for strong bones, teeth, and proper bodily functions. It is used to prevent and treat calcium deficiencies and support overall bone health.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 300-1000 mg elemental calcium daily, usually divided into 1-3 doses. Best taken with meals.
Elderly
Same as adults, but may require closer monitoring due to potential reduced absorption or renal function. Consult a physician.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage adjustment may be necessary based on serum calcium and phosphate levels, and renal function. Regular monitoring is crucial.
How to Take
Take orally with water, preferably with meals to enhance absorption. If taking antacids, iron supplements, or certain antibiotics, separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium is a vital mineral required for bone formation, nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and blood coagulation. It maintains mineral balance in the body and plays a crucial role in various enzymatic reactions and hormonal secretions.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Peak plasma levels are typically reached within 4-6 hours after oral administration.
Excretion
Mainly via feces (unabsorbed calcium) and urine (excess absorbed calcium), with a small amount excreted through sweat.
Half life
Variable, depending on calcium metabolism and renal function; the biological half-life of bone calcium is much longer than plasma calcium.
Absorption
Approximately 20-30% of ingested calcium (as elemental calcium from calcium carbonate) is absorbed, primarily in the small intestine, through both active transport (vitamin D-dependent) and passive diffusion.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized in the classical sense but is incorporated into bone matrix, cellular pools, and extracellular fluid.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia (abnormally high blood calcium levels)
- Severe hypercalciuria (abnormally high urine calcium levels)
- Hypersensitivity to calcium salts or any component of the formulation
- Primary or secondary hyperparathyroidism (unless hypercalcemia is managed)
Drug Interactions
Iron supplements
Calcium may reduce iron absorption. Separate doses by several hours.
Thiazide diuretics
May decrease urinary calcium excretion, increasing the risk of hypercalcemia.
Bisphosphonates (e.g., Alendronate)
Calcium can reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates. Administer calcium at least 30-60 minutes after or several hours before bisphosphonates.
Thyroid hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine)
Calcium can interfere with the absorption of thyroid hormones. Administer calcium at least 4 hours apart.
Tetracycline and Fluoroquinolone antibiotics
Calcium can chelate these antibiotics, significantly reducing their absorption. Administer calcium at least 2-4 hours apart.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach and sight of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose (hypercalcemia) may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, polyuria, polydipsia, confusion, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias, renal impairment, and coma. Management involves discontinuing calcium, hydrating the patient, and managing hypercalcemia under strict medical supervision.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and essential during pregnancy and lactation for proper fetal and infant development, but should be used under medical supervision. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosage, as needs may vary.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia (abnormally high blood calcium levels)
- Severe hypercalciuria (abnormally high urine calcium levels)
- Hypersensitivity to calcium salts or any component of the formulation
- Primary or secondary hyperparathyroidism (unless hypercalcemia is managed)
Drug Interactions
Iron supplements
Calcium may reduce iron absorption. Separate doses by several hours.
Thiazide diuretics
May decrease urinary calcium excretion, increasing the risk of hypercalcemia.
Bisphosphonates (e.g., Alendronate)
Calcium can reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates. Administer calcium at least 30-60 minutes after or several hours before bisphosphonates.
Thyroid hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine)
Calcium can interfere with the absorption of thyroid hormones. Administer calcium at least 4 hours apart.
Tetracycline and Fluoroquinolone antibiotics
Calcium can chelate these antibiotics, significantly reducing their absorption. Administer calcium at least 2-4 hours apart.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach and sight of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose (hypercalcemia) may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, polyuria, polydipsia, confusion, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias, renal impairment, and coma. Management involves discontinuing calcium, hydrating the patient, and managing hypercalcemia under strict medical supervision.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and essential during pregnancy and lactation for proper fetal and infant development, but should be used under medical supervision. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosage, as needs may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from the date of manufacture when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Pharmacies, supermarkets, online stores
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials and studies support the efficacy of calcium carbonate supplementation in preventing and treating various bone health conditions and calcium deficiencies, particularly when combined with Vitamin D.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially in patients with renal impairment, chronic diseases, or on long-term therapy)
- Serum phosphate levels
- Renal function tests (e.g., serum creatinine, BUN)
- Urinary calcium excretion (if indicated)
Doctor Notes
- Educate patients on the importance of dietary calcium and Vitamin D, alongside supplementation.
- Assess patient's baseline serum calcium, phosphate, and renal function before initiating long-term calcium therapy.
- Advise patients on potential drug interactions, emphasizing appropriate dosing intervals.
- Monitor for signs and symptoms of hypercalcemia, especially in at-risk populations.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Calcitate 300 mg Tablet as directed by your healthcare provider or as per package instructions.
- Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all other medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking.
- Maintain adequate fluid intake throughout the day.
- Report any unusual or severe side effects to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Calcitate 300 mg Tablet is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience any side effects that impair your concentration or vision, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Include calcium-rich foods in your diet (e.g., dairy products, leafy green vegetables, fortified foods).
- Ensure adequate Vitamin D intake, through diet, sunlight exposure, or supplements, for better calcium absorption.
- Regular weight-bearing exercise (e.g., walking, jogging) can help maintain bone density.
- Limit excessive caffeine and alcohol intake, as they can interfere with calcium metabolism.
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