Ostoplus
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate (eq. to Elemental Calcium 500 mg) + Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) 200 IU
Manufacturer
General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| ostoplus 500 mg tablet | ৳ 2.50 | ৳ 25.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ostoplus-500-mg-tablet is a combination supplement containing elemental calcium and cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3), primarily used to support bone health and prevent or treat conditions associated with calcium and vitamin D deficiency.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usually 1-2 tablets daily, or as directed by the physician.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, but caution is advised in patients with renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; dose adjustment may be necessary. Regular monitoring of serum calcium and phosphate levels is recommended. Not recommended in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Ostoplus-500-mg-tablet should be taken orally, preferably with a meal or as directed by the physician. It can be swallowed whole with water.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium is an essential mineral vital for maintaining bone density, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Vitamin D3 facilitates the absorption of calcium from the gut and plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphate levels in the body, promoting bone mineralization.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects on bone health are gradual, typically observed over weeks to months with consistent use.
Excretion
Calcium is primarily excreted via feces (unabsorbed) and urine (absorbed excess). Cholecalciferol and its metabolites are mainly excreted via bile and feces.
Half life
Calcium has complex kinetics, and its plasma half-life is short, but bone turnover is continuous. Cholecalciferol's half-life is approximately 15-20 days, but its active metabolites have longer half-lives.
Absorption
Calcium carbonate absorption is best with food. Cholecalciferol is fat-soluble and absorbed in the small intestine. Bioavailability of calcium is about 20-30%.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized in the traditional sense; it is absorbed and utilized. Cholecalciferol is hydroxylated in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D (calcifediol) and then in the kidneys to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol), the active form.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to the active substances or any excipients
- Hypercalcemia (abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood)
- Hypercalciuria (abnormally high levels of calcium in the urine)
- Severe renal impairment
- Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
- Primary hyperparathyroidism
- Vitamin D intoxication
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can interfere with the absorption of bisphosphonates. Administer calcium at least 30 minutes after bisphosphonates.
Corticosteroids
Can reduce calcium absorption and increase calcium excretion, potentially necessitating higher doses of calcium/Vitamin D.
Thyroid hormones
Calcium carbonate can reduce the absorption of levothyroxine. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
Thiazide diuretics
Can reduce urinary calcium excretion, increasing the risk of hypercalcemia.
Digitalis glycosides
Hypercalcemia can increase the risk of digitalis toxicity.
Tetracyclines & Quinolone antibiotics
Calcium can chelate these antibiotics, reducing their absorption. Administer at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium supplements.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose (hypercalcemia) may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, thirst, polyuria, kidney stones, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias and coma. Management involves immediate discontinuation of the supplement, hydration, and in severe cases, loop diuretics and corticosteroids may be used to lower calcium levels.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Calcium and Vitamin D are essential during pregnancy and lactation. This supplement is generally considered safe when used within recommended daily allowances, but should only be taken under medical supervision to avoid exceeding safe limits, which could be harmful to the fetus or infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 36 months from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies, drugstores
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA in Bangladesh
Patent Status
Generic
Clinical Trials
Calcium and Vitamin D supplements have been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials for their efficacy in preventing and treating bone-related conditions, including osteoporosis and fractures.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially in patients on long-term therapy or with renal impairment)
- Serum phosphate levels
- Urinary calcium excretion (24-hour collection)
- Renal function tests (e.g., serum creatinine, eGFR) in at-risk patients
Doctor Notes
- Assess patient's dietary calcium and vitamin D intake before prescribing.
- Counsel patients on potential drug interactions, especially with antibiotics, bisphosphonates, and thyroid hormones.
- Advise regular monitoring of serum calcium, especially in elderly patients or those with impaired renal function.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not exceed the recommended daily dose without consulting your doctor.
- Maintain adequate fluid intake while on this medication.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
- Report any unusual or severe side effects to your physician immediately.
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 to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Ostoplus-500-mg-tablet is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. No special precautions are necessary.
Lifestyle Advice
- Incorporate calcium-rich foods (e.g., dairy products, leafy greens) into your diet.
- Ensure adequate sun exposure for natural Vitamin D synthesis, while also being mindful of sun protection.
- Regular weight-bearing exercise helps maintain bone density.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.