Carbocal
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate
Manufacturer
Renata Limited
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| carbocal 500 mg tablet | ৳ 2.20 | ৳ 22.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Carbocal-500 mg tablet contains Calcium Carbonate, an essential mineral for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction. It is used to prevent or treat low blood calcium levels and can also act as an antacid.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For calcium supplementation: 1-2 tablets daily, or as directed by physician. As an antacid: 1-2 tablets as needed.
Elderly
Same as adults, but caution with renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution and monitor calcium levels. Dosage adjustment may be required.
How to Take
Oral. Can be taken with or without food. For antacid effect, chew thoroughly before swallowing. For calcium supplementation, it is usually taken with food to enhance absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium Carbonate provides an exogenous source of calcium, which is crucial for maintaining proper bone density, nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and various enzymatic processes. It acts as an antacid by neutralizing gastric acid.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antacid effect: within minutes; Systemic calcium effect: varies, typically gradual with regular supplementation.
Excretion
Primarily via kidneys (urine) and feces (unabsorbed calcium and small amount of endogenous calcium).
Half life
Blood calcium half-life is complex due to regulatory mechanisms; however, elimination half-life of absorbed calcium is approximately 20-30 hours.
Absorption
Approximately 20-30% of ingested calcium is absorbed, primarily in the duodenum and proximal jejunum, dependent on Vitamin D status.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized in the traditional sense; it is an ion used in various physiological processes.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia
- Severe hypercalciuria
- Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
- Hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Decreased absorption of bisphosphonates; separate administration by at least 30-60 minutes.
Iron supplements
Decreased iron absorption; separate administration.
Thyroid Hormones
Decreased absorption of thyroid hormones; separate administration by at least 4 hours.
Thiazide Diuretics
Increased risk of hypercalcemia.
Tetracyclines & Quinolones
Decreased absorption of antibiotics; separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include severe constipation, nausea, vomiting, confusion, polydipsia, polyuria, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias. Treatment involves discontinuing calcium, hydration, and managing hypercalcemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation when taken at recommended doses. Consult a doctor before use.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia
- Severe hypercalciuria
- Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
- Hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Decreased absorption of bisphosphonates; separate administration by at least 30-60 minutes.
Iron supplements
Decreased iron absorption; separate administration.
Thyroid Hormones
Decreased absorption of thyroid hormones; separate administration by at least 4 hours.
Thiazide Diuretics
Increased risk of hypercalcemia.
Tetracyclines & Quinolones
Decreased absorption of antibiotics; separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include severe constipation, nausea, vomiting, confusion, polydipsia, polyuria, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias. Treatment involves discontinuing calcium, hydration, and managing hypercalcemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation when taken at recommended doses. Consult a doctor before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, drugstores
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Calcium carbonate has been extensively studied over decades; numerous clinical trials confirm its efficacy and safety for bone health and calcium deficiency across various populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially in patients with renal impairment or on long-term therapy)
- Serum phosphate levels
- Renal function (creatinine, BUN)
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to maintain adequate fluid intake to prevent kidney stone formation.
- Remind patients about potential drug interactions, especially with thyroid hormones, certain antibiotics, and bisphosphonates; counsel on proper timing of administration.
- Assess baseline calcium and renal function before initiating long-term therapy, particularly in elderly or renally impaired patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Take as directed by your doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- If you are taking other medications, consult your doctor about potential interactions.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Generally no known effects on driving ability.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D.
- Engage in weight-bearing exercises to promote bone health.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking, which can negatively impact bone density.
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Global Brand Names
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