Rocal-O
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate + Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3)
Manufacturer
PharmaCorp
Country
Global
Loading images...
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 400 mg Tablet is a nutritional supplement combining Calcium Carbonate and Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) to support bone health and prevent calcium and vitamin D deficiencies.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 1-2 tablets daily, or as directed by a physician. Best taken with meals to optimize absorption.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage; however, individual needs may vary. Monitoring of calcium and vitamin D levels may be recommended.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage adjustment may be necessary based on renal function and serum calcium levels. Consult a physician.
How to Take
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Can be taken with or without food, but taking it with meals may improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium is an essential mineral required for bone formation, muscle contraction, and nerve function. Vitamin D3 facilitates the absorption of calcium from the gastrointestinal tract and helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects on bone density and mineral balance are gradual, typically observed over weeks to months of consistent supplementation.
Excretion
Unabsorbed calcium is excreted in feces. Absorbed calcium is excreted via urine and feces. Vitamin D metabolites are primarily excreted in bile and feces, with some renal excretion of water-soluble conjugates.
Half life
Calcium's half-life is complex due to its constant metabolic turnover. Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) has a half-life of 24 hours to several days; its primary active metabolite, calcitriol, has a half-life of approximately 15 hours.
Absorption
Calcium absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine, enhanced by the active form of Vitamin D. Cholecalciferol is absorbed from the GI tract, primarily in the jejunum, and transported via chylomicrons.
Metabolism
Calcium is predominantly incorporated into bone, with excess excreted. Cholecalciferol is hydroxylated in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D (calcifediol) and further in the kidneys to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol), the active form.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Calcium Carbonate, Cholecalciferol, or any component of the tablet.
- Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels).
- Hypervitaminosis D (excessive Vitamin D levels).
- Severe renal impairment.
- Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones).
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can interfere with the absorption of bisphosphonates. Administer calcium at least 30 minutes (or as advised for specific bisphosphonates) after bisphosphonates.
Corticosteroids
May reduce calcium absorption, potentially necessitating higher calcium/vitamin D doses.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcemia due to decreased urinary calcium excretion.
Digitalis glycosides
Hypercalcemia, particularly with high doses of Vitamin D, may potentiate the effects and toxicity of digitalis.
Tetracycline and Quinolone antibiotics
Calcium can chelate these antibiotics, reducing their absorption. Administer at least 2-4 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium supplements.
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 hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, thirst, polyuria, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, fatigue, mental disturbances, kidney stones, in severe cases cardiac arrhythmias). Management involves discontinuing the supplement, hydration, and medical management of hypercalcemia. Seek immediate medical attention.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Calcium and Vitamin D are essential during pregnancy and lactation. Rocal-O can be used if deficiencies are confirmed or suspected, under medical supervision, ensuring dosages do not exceed recommended daily allowances.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Calcium Carbonate, Cholecalciferol, or any component of the tablet.
- Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels).
- Hypervitaminosis D (excessive Vitamin D levels).
- Severe renal impairment.
- Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones).
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can interfere with the absorption of bisphosphonates. Administer calcium at least 30 minutes (or as advised for specific bisphosphonates) after bisphosphonates.
Corticosteroids
May reduce calcium absorption, potentially necessitating higher calcium/vitamin D doses.
Thiazide diuretics
May increase the risk of hypercalcemia due to decreased urinary calcium excretion.
Digitalis glycosides
Hypercalcemia, particularly with high doses of Vitamin D, may potentiate the effects and toxicity of digitalis.
Tetracycline and Quinolone antibiotics
Calcium can chelate these antibiotics, reducing their absorption. Administer at least 2-4 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium supplements.
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 hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, thirst, polyuria, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, fatigue, mental disturbances, kidney stones, in severe cases cardiac arrhythmias). Management involves discontinuing the supplement, hydration, and medical management of hypercalcemia. Seek immediate medical attention.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Calcium and Vitamin D are essential during pregnancy and lactation. Rocal-O can be used if deficiencies are confirmed or suspected, under medical supervision, ensuring dosages do not exceed recommended daily allowances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, refer to the product packaging for exact expiry.
Availability
Pharmacies, Drugstores
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
Clinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials and studies have established the efficacy and safety of calcium and vitamin D supplementation in preventing and treating deficiencies and supporting bone health, particularly in at-risk populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially in patients with renal impairment or on long-term therapy).
- Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels to assess vitamin D status.
- Renal function (e.g., creatinine, BUN) in patients with kidney issues.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of adequate calcium and vitamin D intake for bone health, especially in at-risk groups (elderly, postmenopausal women, individuals with limited sun exposure).
- Advise patients to inform about all concomitant medications to avoid potential drug interactions.
- Recommend monitoring serum calcium and vitamin D levels periodically in patients on long-term therapy or with renal impairment.
Patient Guidelines
- Take as directed by your healthcare provider; do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking.
- Maintain adequate fluid intake throughout the day.
- If you experience severe gastrointestinal upset or symptoms of hypercalcemia, consult your doctor 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
Rocal-O 400 mg Tablet is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. No specific precautions are generally required.
Lifestyle Advice
- Incorporate regular weight-bearing exercises to support bone density.
- Ensure adequate sun exposure for natural vitamin D synthesis (if appropriate).
- Limit excessive alcohol intake and avoid smoking, which can negatively impact bone health.
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.