Isocal
Generic Name
Calcium (as Carbonate)
Manufacturer
Hypothetical Pharma Co.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| isocal 500 mg tablet | ৳ 5.00 | ৳ 50.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Isocal 500 mg Tablet is a dietary supplement providing elemental calcium, essential for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 500-1000 mg elemental calcium daily, in divided doses, preferably with meals.
Elderly
Similar to adults, often higher needs (e.g., 1000-1200 mg elemental calcium daily).
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; dosage adjustment may be necessary due to risk of hypercalcemia. Consult physician.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably with food to enhance absorption and reduce stomach upset. For chewable tablets, chew thoroughly before swallowing.
Mechanism of Action
Provides calcium ions to the body, which are integral for bone mineralization, neurotransmission, muscle function, and various enzymatic reactions.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Not applicable for a mineral supplement in acute sense; effects on bone health are long-term.
Excretion
Primarily via kidneys (urine) and intestines (feces).
Half life
Calcium has no distinct plasma half-life as it's tightly regulated; compartmental half-lives vary from minutes to years (in bone).
Absorption
Calcium is absorbed primarily in the small intestine via active transport and passive diffusion. Absorption efficiency decreases with increasing dose.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized in the traditional sense; it is absorbed and utilized.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia
- Hypercalciuria
- Severe renal impairment
- Known hypersensitivity to calcium salts
Drug Interactions
Vitamin D
Enhances calcium absorption.
Iron Supplements
Calcium can decrease iron absorption; take calcium a few hours apart from iron.
Thiazide Diuretics
May increase serum calcium levels by reducing calcium excretion.
Thyroid Hormones (Levothyroxine)
Calcium can decrease absorption of thyroid hormones; take at least 4 hours apart.
Tetracyclines & Quinolones (Antibiotics)
Calcium can chelate these antibiotics, reducing their absorption; take calcium several hours apart.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, constipation, polyuria, thirst, muscle weakness, and confusion. Severe hypercalcemia can lead to kidney stones, heart arrhythmias, and coma. Treatment involves discontinuation of calcium, hydration, and medical management of hypercalcemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy and lactation to meet increased calcium needs. Consult physician for appropriate dosage.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia
- Hypercalciuria
- Severe renal impairment
- Known hypersensitivity to calcium salts
Drug Interactions
Vitamin D
Enhances calcium absorption.
Iron Supplements
Calcium can decrease iron absorption; take calcium a few hours apart from iron.
Thiazide Diuretics
May increase serum calcium levels by reducing calcium excretion.
Thyroid Hormones (Levothyroxine)
Calcium can decrease absorption of thyroid hormones; take at least 4 hours apart.
Tetracyclines & Quinolones (Antibiotics)
Calcium can chelate these antibiotics, reducing their absorption; take calcium several hours apart.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, constipation, polyuria, thirst, muscle weakness, and confusion. Severe hypercalcemia can lead to kidney stones, heart arrhythmias, and coma. Treatment involves discontinuation of calcium, hydration, and medical management of hypercalcemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy and lactation to meet increased calcium needs. Consult physician for appropriate dosage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years
Availability
Pharmacies, Supermarkets, Online
Approval Status
Over-the-counter (OTC) supplement
Patent Status
Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials support the efficacy of calcium supplementation for bone health and osteoporosis prevention, often in combination with Vitamin D.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially in renal impairment or with high doses)
- Urine calcium (if kidney stones are a concern)
- Serum vitamin D levels
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on adequate Vitamin D intake for optimal calcium absorption.
- Monitor serum calcium and renal function in high-risk patients.
- Educate patients on potential drug interactions and proper administration.
Patient Guidelines
- Take with food for better absorption.
- Do not exceed recommended dose.
- Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.
- Maintain adequate fluid intake to prevent constipation.
Missed Dose Advice
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double dose.
Driving Precautions
No known effects on driving ability.
Lifestyle Advice
- Combine with vitamin D-rich foods or supplements for optimal absorption.
- Engage in weight-bearing exercises to promote bone health.
- Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol intake.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.