Calmet
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| calmet 500 mg tablet | ৳ 3.00 | ৳ 30.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Calmet 500 mg Tablet contains Calcium Carbonate, a mineral supplement essential for strong bones, healthy teeth, nerve impulse transmission, and muscle function. It is used to prevent or treat low blood calcium levels and can also be used as an antacid to relieve heartburn.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For calcium supplementation: 500 mg to 2000 mg daily in divided doses with food. For antacid: 500 mg to 1500 mg as needed.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but caution with renal function. Generally, 500-1000 mg daily.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution and monitor serum calcium levels. Dosage adjustment may be required.
How to Take
Oral administration. Take with or after meals to enhance absorption and reduce gastrointestinal upset. If used as an antacid, chew thoroughly before swallowing, or take with water.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium carbonate works by providing an exogenous source of calcium, which is crucial for various physiological processes including bone mineralization, muscle contraction, and nerve function. As an antacid, it neutralizes stomach acid by forming calcium chloride.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
As an antacid, relief occurs within minutes. For calcium supplementation, therapeutic effects are gradual.
Excretion
Primarily excreted via the kidneys (urine) and feces (unabsorbed calcium).
Half life
Difficult to determine due to calcium's complex distribution and regulation; effective half-life in bone is very long.
Absorption
Approximately 20-30% of ingested calcium carbonate is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily in the duodenum.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized in the traditional sense; it is an ion that circulates in the blood and is incorporated into bone and other tissues.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels)
- Severe hypercalciuria
- Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
- Hypophosphatemia
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Reduced absorption of bisphosphonates. Administer at least 30 minutes apart.
Thiazide Diuretics
Increased risk of hypercalcemia.
Thyroid hormones (Levothyroxine)
Reduced absorption of thyroid hormones. Administer at least 4 hours apart.
Tetracycline and Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics
Calcium can reduce the absorption of these antibiotics. Administer at least 2-4 hours apart.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe constipation, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, confusion, and thirst. In severe cases, hypercalcemia can lead to kidney damage and cardiac arrhythmias. Treatment involves discontinuing calcium, hydration, and medical management of hypercalcemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe during pregnancy and lactation when taken at recommended doses. Consult a doctor before use, especially if considering high doses.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels)
- Severe hypercalciuria
- Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
- Hypophosphatemia
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Reduced absorption of bisphosphonates. Administer at least 30 minutes apart.
Thiazide Diuretics
Increased risk of hypercalcemia.
Thyroid hormones (Levothyroxine)
Reduced absorption of thyroid hormones. Administer at least 4 hours apart.
Tetracycline and Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics
Calcium can reduce the absorption of these antibiotics. Administer at least 2-4 hours apart.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe constipation, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, confusion, and thirst. In severe cases, hypercalcemia can lead to kidney damage and cardiac arrhythmias. Treatment involves discontinuing calcium, hydration, and medical management of hypercalcemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe during pregnancy and lactation when taken at recommended doses. Consult a doctor before use, especially if considering high doses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, supermarkets, online stores
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies globally
Patent Status
Generic, off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical data available supporting its efficacy in calcium supplementation and as an antacid, particularly in preventing and treating osteoporosis and managing dyspepsia.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially with long-term use or in patients with renal impairment)
- Renal function (creatinine, BUN)
- Urinary calcium (if hypercalciuria is suspected)
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to take with food to minimize GI upset.
- Remind patients about potential interactions with other medications, especially antibiotics and thyroid hormones.
- Monitor serum calcium and renal function in patients on long-term therapy or with pre-existing renal conditions.
Patient Guidelines
- Take with food to improve absorption.
- Drink plenty of water to help prevent kidney stones.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting a doctor.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications 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.
Driving Precautions
Calcium carbonate is not known to impair 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.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking, as these can negatively impact bone health.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.