See-Cal
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate
Manufacturer
Aristopharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
see cal 500 mg tablet | ৳ 3.25 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
See-Cal 500 mg tablet contains Calcium Carbonate, an essential mineral primarily used to prevent or treat low blood calcium levels. It is vital for bone formation, maintenance, nerve and muscle function, and healthy heart rhythm.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usually 500 mg to 1000 mg (1-2 tablets) daily, taken in divided doses, preferably with meals.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, but caution is advised in patients with renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution and monitor serum calcium levels. Dosage adjustment may be required based on the severity of renal impairment and calcium levels.
How to Take
Swallow the tablet whole with water, preferably with a meal to enhance absorption and minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not chew or crush.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium Carbonate provides exogenous calcium, which is an essential mineral required for various physiological functions including bone mineralization, muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and glandular secretion. It helps maintain normal calcium levels in the blood.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Not acutely measurable for bone health benefits; for symptomatic hypocalcemia, effects are seen within hours.
Excretion
Excreted primarily through the kidneys via urine (glomerular filtration and tubular reabsorption) and feces (unabsorbed calcium and endogenous secretion).
Half life
The half-life of calcium in serum is variable and depends on factors like age, renal function, and vitamin D status. Elimination half-life from the body's exchangeable pool is approximately 20-25 hours.
Absorption
Calcium carbonate is absorbed in the small intestine, primarily in the duodenum, through both active and passive transport mechanisms. Absorption efficiency decreases with age and high doses.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized in the traditional sense; it is an ion that is used or stored in the body, primarily in bones.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood)
- Severe hypercalciuria (excessive calcium in urine)
- Hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate or any component of the formulation
- Severe renal impairment
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates. Take calcium at least 30 minutes after bisphosphonates.
Iron supplements
Calcium may interfere with iron absorption. Take them at different times of the day.
Thiazide diuretics
Can increase calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, potentially leading to hypercalcemia.
Tetracycline and Quinolone antibiotics
Calcium can decrease the absorption of these antibiotics. Take them at least 2-3 hours apart.
Thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine)
Calcium can reduce absorption of thyroid hormones. Take at least 4 hours apart.
Storage
Store in a cool and 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, thirst, polyuria, anorexia, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, and fatigue. Severe cases can lead to renal impairment, cardiac arrhythmias, and coma. Treatment involves discontinuation of calcium, hydration, and management of electrolyte imbalances.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Calcium is essential during pregnancy and lactation. This medicine is generally considered safe when taken at recommended doses to meet increased calcium requirements. Consult a doctor before use.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood)
- Severe hypercalciuria (excessive calcium in urine)
- Hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate or any component of the formulation
- Severe renal impairment
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates. Take calcium at least 30 minutes after bisphosphonates.
Iron supplements
Calcium may interfere with iron absorption. Take them at different times of the day.
Thiazide diuretics
Can increase calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, potentially leading to hypercalcemia.
Tetracycline and Quinolone antibiotics
Calcium can decrease the absorption of these antibiotics. Take them at least 2-3 hours apart.
Thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine)
Calcium can reduce absorption of thyroid hormones. Take at least 4 hours apart.
Storage
Store in a cool and 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, thirst, polyuria, anorexia, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, and fatigue. Severe cases can lead to renal impairment, cardiac arrhythmias, and coma. Treatment involves discontinuation of calcium, hydration, and management of electrolyte imbalances.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Calcium is essential during pregnancy and lactation. This medicine is generally considered safe when taken at recommended doses to meet increased calcium requirements. Consult a doctor before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from the date of manufacture
Availability
Pharmacies, drugstores
Approval Status
Approved (DGDA, Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of calcium carbonate for preventing and treating calcium deficiency and related bone disorders. Studies often focus on its role in osteoporosis management and fracture prevention, often in combination with Vitamin D.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially in patients with renal impairment or those on prolonged high-dose therapy)
- Serum phosphate levels
- Renal function tests
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to maintain adequate hydration to minimize the risk of constipation and nephrolithiasis.
- Consider serum calcium and renal function monitoring, especially in elderly patients or those with pre-existing conditions.
- Educate patients on potential drug interactions, particularly with antibiotics, bisphosphonates, and thyroid hormones.
- Emphasize the importance of concurrent Vitamin D intake for optimal calcium absorption.
Patient Guidelines
- Take as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Take with food to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.
- Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent constipation.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking.
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
See-Cal 500 mg Tablet is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Incorporate calcium-rich foods into your diet (e.g., dairy products, leafy greens).
- Engage in weight-bearing exercises to support bone health.
- Ensure adequate Vitamin D intake, as it is crucial for calcium absorption.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which can negatively impact bone density.
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