Calium
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate
Manufacturer
Various Pharmaceutical Companies
Country
Global
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| calium 500 mg tablet | ৳ 2.50 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Calcium carbonate is a dietary supplement used to prevent or treat low blood calcium levels in people who do not get enough calcium from their diets. It is also used as an antacid to relieve heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For calcium supplementation: 1000-1500 mg elemental calcium daily in divided doses. As an antacid: 500-1000 mg as needed, up to 7500 mg/day (for short-term use).
Elderly
Similar to adults, but may have reduced absorption and increased risk of hypercalcemia; often requires 1200 mg elemental calcium daily.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage adjustment may be necessary, especially if used as a phosphate binder. Regular monitoring of serum calcium and phosphate levels is crucial.
How to Take
Oral administration. For supplementation, it is generally recommended to take with food to enhance absorption. As an antacid, it can be taken after meals or at bedtime. Chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing.
Mechanism of Action
As a supplement, it provides elemental calcium. As an antacid, it neutralizes stomach acid by reacting with hydrochloric acid to form calcium chloride, water, and carbon dioxide.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antacid effect: within minutes; Supplement effect: gradual (over weeks to months for bone health benefits).
Excretion
Primarily through feces (unabsorbed calcium); minor renal excretion (filtered by glomeruli and largely reabsorbed).
Half life
Not directly applicable to elemental calcium; depends on complex physiological regulation of calcium homeostasis.
Absorption
Approximately 20-30% of elemental calcium is absorbed in the small intestine, requiring vitamin D for optimal absorption. Absorption can be affected by food and gastric pH.
Metabolism
Elemental calcium is not metabolized in the traditional sense; it is absorbed, distributed, and utilized in various physiological processes.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels)
- Severe hypercalciuria (high urine calcium levels)
- History of renal calculi (kidney stones)
- Hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can interfere with the absorption of bisphosphonates. Take calcium at least 30 minutes (or as advised) after bisphosphonates.
Iron supplements
Calcium may inhibit iron absorption. Take at different times of the day.
Thiazide diuretics
May reduce calcium excretion and increase calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, potentially leading to hypercalcemia.
Tetracyclines & Quinolone antibiotics
Calcium can chelate these antibiotics, significantly reducing their absorption and efficacy. Administer calcium several hours before or after these antibiotics.
Thyroid hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine)
Calcium can decrease the absorption of thyroid hormones. Administer calcium at least 4 hours apart from thyroid hormones.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C (86°F), away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe hypercalcemia, which can manifest as nausea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, confusion, polyuria, polydipsia, and in severe cases, kidney stones and cardiac arrhythmias. Management involves discontinuing calcium, rehydration, monitoring serum calcium levels, and addressing underlying causes.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Calcium requirements are increased during pregnancy and lactation. This medication is generally considered safe when taken at recommended doses, but always consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosage and monitoring.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels)
- Severe hypercalciuria (high urine calcium levels)
- History of renal calculi (kidney stones)
- Hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can interfere with the absorption of bisphosphonates. Take calcium at least 30 minutes (or as advised) after bisphosphonates.
Iron supplements
Calcium may inhibit iron absorption. Take at different times of the day.
Thiazide diuretics
May reduce calcium excretion and increase calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, potentially leading to hypercalcemia.
Tetracyclines & Quinolone antibiotics
Calcium can chelate these antibiotics, significantly reducing their absorption and efficacy. Administer calcium several hours before or after these antibiotics.
Thyroid hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine)
Calcium can decrease the absorption of thyroid hormones. Administer calcium at least 4 hours apart from thyroid hormones.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C (86°F), away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe hypercalcemia, which can manifest as nausea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, confusion, polyuria, polydipsia, and in severe cases, kidney stones and cardiac arrhythmias. Management involves discontinuing calcium, rehydration, monitoring serum calcium levels, and addressing underlying causes.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Calcium requirements are increased during pregnancy and lactation. This medication is generally considered safe when taken at recommended doses, but always consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosage and monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Generally 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Pharmacies, drugstores, supermarkets
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials and epidemiological studies have demonstrated the efficacy of calcium carbonate in preventing and treating calcium deficiency, managing osteoporosis, and as an effective antacid. Research also continues on its role in other conditions.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially in patients with renal impairment, on high doses, or concomitant use of thiazide diuretics)
- Renal function (creatinine, BUN) in patients with kidney issues
- Urine calcium excretion in patients prone to kidney stones
Doctor Notes
- When prescribing calcium carbonate, consider the patient's total calcium intake from diet and other supplements to avoid hypercalcemia.
- Educate patients on potential drug interactions, especially with thyroid hormones, bisphosphonates, and certain antibiotics; advise timing of administration accordingly.
- For patients at risk of kidney stones, encourage adequate fluid intake and monitor urine calcium excretion.
Patient Guidelines
- Take calcium carbonate exactly as prescribed or directed on the label. Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting a doctor.
- If taking as an antacid, chew chewable tablets thoroughly before swallowing to ensure rapid action.
- Maintain adequate fluid intake throughout the day to prevent constipation and reduce the risk of kidney stone formation.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all other medications and supplements you are taking, as calcium can interact with many drugs.
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 take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Calcium carbonate generally does not impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. No specific precautions are required.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium (dairy products, leafy greens) and Vitamin D (fatty fish, fortified foods, sunlight exposure).
- Engage in regular weight-bearing exercise (e.g., walking, jogging) to support bone health.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and smoking, as these can negatively impact bone density and overall health.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.