Lifecal-DS
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate + Vitamin D3
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| lifecal ds 600 mg tablet | ৳ 13.00 | ৳ 130.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Lifecal-DS 600 mg Tablet is a nutritional supplement containing elemental calcium and Vitamin D3, used to treat and prevent calcium and Vitamin D deficiencies and support bone health.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 1-2 tablets daily, or as directed by a physician.
Elderly
Same as adults, but may require closer monitoring for hypercalcemia.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage adjustment may be necessary based on serum calcium and phosphate levels.
How to Take
Oral. Take with water, preferably with meals to enhance absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium is an essential mineral for bone formation, nerve function, muscle contraction, and blood clotting. Vitamin D3 helps the body absorb calcium from the gut and regulates calcium and phosphate levels in the body.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Gradual, effects on bone density are observed over weeks to months.
Excretion
Calcium is excreted via kidneys and feces. Vitamin D3 metabolites are primarily excreted in bile and feces.
Half life
Elemental Calcium: No distinct half-life. Vitamin D3: 15-30 days (storage in fat tissue prolongs action).
Absorption
Calcium absorption varies and is enhanced by Vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is absorbed from the small intestine.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized. Vitamin D3 is hydroxylated in the liver and kidneys to its active form, calcitriol.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate, Vitamin D3, or any component.
- Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels)
- Severe hypercalciuria (high calcium in urine)
- Renal stones (nephrolithiasis)
- Vitamin D overdose
Drug Interactions
Levothyroxine
Reduced absorption. Take calcium several hours apart.
Bisphosphonates
Reduced absorption of bisphosphonates. Take calcium at least 30 minutes after bisphosphonates.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcemia.
Tetracyclines & Quinolones
Calcium can reduce absorption of these antibiotics. Take at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium.
Cardiac glycosides (e.g., Digoxin)
Risk of arrhythmias due to hypercalcemia.
Oxalic acid (spinach, rhubarb) & Phytic acid (whole grains)
Can inhibit calcium absorption.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, thirst, polyuria, muscle weakness, fatigue). Treatment involves discontinuing the supplement, hydration, and medical management of hypercalcemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally safe and often recommended during pregnancy and lactation to meet increased calcium and Vitamin D requirements, but should be used under medical supervision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, drug stores
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic/Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials support the efficacy of calcium and Vitamin D3 in bone health and deficiency management.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially in patients with renal impairment or on prolonged high doses)
- Urinary calcium excretion
- Serum Vitamin D levels (25(OH)D)
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on dietary sources of calcium and Vitamin D.
- Monitor serum calcium and Vitamin D levels in at-risk patients.
- Consider drug interactions, especially with cardiac glycosides and certain antibiotics.
Patient Guidelines
- Take as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Follow a balanced diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it's close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Generally no specific precautions. Does not impair ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Ensure adequate sun exposure for natural Vitamin D synthesis.
- Regular weight-bearing exercise helps maintain bone density.
- Reduce intake of caffeine, alcohol, and sodium as they can affect calcium balance.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.