Rocal-O
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate + Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| rocal o 400 mg tablet | ৳ 8.00 | ৳ 80.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Rocal-O is a combination supplement containing calcium and vitamin D3, primarily used to maintain strong bones and teeth, prevent osteoporosis, and support overall bone health. Vitamin D3 aids in the absorption of calcium.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 1-2 tablets daily, or as directed by a physician. Should be taken with food for better absorption.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, but caution in patients with renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment may be necessary. Consult a physician as high calcium levels can be problematic. Avoid in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Orally, preferably with meals to enhance calcium absorption and minimize gastrointestinal upset. Swallow the tablet whole with water.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium is essential for bone mineralization and maintaining bone density. Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) facilitates the absorption of calcium from the gut and its incorporation into bones. It also plays a role in regulating phosphate levels and parathyroid hormone.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Effects on bone density are gradual, over weeks to months.
Excretion
Calcium: Primarily via kidneys and feces. Vitamin D3: Metabolites excreted mainly in bile and feces, with some renal excretion.
Half life
Calcium: Varies. Vitamin D3: 24 hours (Cholecalciferol), but active metabolites have longer half-lives (e.g., Calcitriol 4-6 hours, 25(OH)D3 several weeks).
Absorption
Calcium carbonate is absorbed in the small intestine, requiring gastric acid. Vitamin D3 is absorbed from the small intestine, primarily in the jejunum, and requires bile salts.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized. Vitamin D3 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
- Hypercalcaemia (high blood calcium levels)
- Hypercalciuria (high calcium in urine)
- Severe renal impairment
- Known hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate or vitamin D3
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids
May reduce calcium absorption.
Thyroid hormones
Calcium can reduce absorption of levothyroxine. Take at least 4 hours apart.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcaemia.
Tetracyclines/Fluoroquinolones
Calcium can reduce absorption of these antibiotics. Take at least 2-4 hours apart.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypercalcaemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, thirst, polyuria, muscle weakness, confusion). Treatment involves discontinuation of the supplement, hydration, and medical management of hypercalcaemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy and lactation for bone health, provided recommended dosages are not exceeded. Consult a physician.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcaemia (high blood calcium levels)
- Hypercalciuria (high calcium in urine)
- Severe renal impairment
- Known hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate or vitamin D3
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids
May reduce calcium absorption.
Thyroid hormones
Calcium can reduce absorption of levothyroxine. Take at least 4 hours apart.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcaemia.
Tetracyclines/Fluoroquinolones
Calcium can reduce absorption of these antibiotics. Take at least 2-4 hours apart.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypercalcaemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, thirst, polyuria, muscle weakness, confusion). Treatment involves discontinuation of the supplement, hydration, and medical management of hypercalcaemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy and lactation for bone health, provided recommended dosages are not exceeded. Consult a physician.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, supermarkets, online stores
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Generic, off-patent
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical evidence supports the efficacy of calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation for bone health and osteoporosis prevention. Specific trials for this brand typically focus on bioavailability and equivalence.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially in patients with renal impairment or long-term use)
- Serum phosphate levels
- Urinary calcium excretion (if hypercalciuria suspected)
- Serum Vitamin D levels (25-hydroxyvitamin D)
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on lifestyle modifications for bone health (diet, exercise, sun exposure).
- Monitor calcium and vitamin D levels periodically, especially in high-risk groups.
- Educate on potential drug interactions.
Patient Guidelines
- Take as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Take with food for better absorption.
- Report any unusual side effects to your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Rocal-O is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium.
- Engage in regular weight-bearing exercise.
- Ensure adequate sun exposure for natural Vitamin D synthesis.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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