Silcal-O
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate + Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3)
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| silcal o 400 mg tablet | ৳ 8.00 | ৳ 80.00 |
| silcal o 740 mg tablet | ৳ 11.00 | ৳ 110.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Silcal-O is a combination supplement containing Calcium Carbonate and Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol), primarily used for maintaining bone health, preventing and treating calcium and vitamin D deficiencies.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
1-2 tablets daily, preferably with meals or as directed by the physician.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, but caution with renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution and monitor calcium levels. Dosage adjustment may be required.
How to Take
Oral. Take with water, preferably with meals to enhance absorption and reduce gastric upset.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium is an essential mineral for bone formation and maintenance. Vitamin D3 helps in the absorption of calcium from the gut and its incorporation into bones, regulating calcium and phosphate homeostasis.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical effects are gradual, over days to weeks for sustained benefits.
Excretion
Calcium is primarily excreted in feces (unabsorbed) and urine. Vitamin D metabolites are excreted primarily in bile and feces.
Half life
Calcium has a complex pharmacokinetic profile. Cholecalciferol has a half-life of about 15 hours, but its active metabolite calcitriol has a longer half-life.
Absorption
Calcium absorption varies (20-40%) and is enhanced by Vitamin D. Cholecalciferol is readily absorbed from the small intestine, especially in the presence of bile salts.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized. Cholecalciferol is hydroxylated in the liver to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol and then in the kidneys to 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (calcitriol), the active form.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia
- Hypercalciuria
- Severe renal impairment
- Known hypersensitivity to calcium salts or vitamin D analogues
- Hyperparathyroidism
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can interfere with bisphosphonate absorption. Take several hours apart.
Cardiac Glycosides
Hypercalcemia can potentiate the effects of cardiac glycosides, increasing risk of arrhythmias.
Thiazide Diuretics
May reduce calcium excretion, increasing risk of hypercalcemia.
Tetracyclines, Fluoroquinolones
Calcium can impair absorption of these antibiotics. Take at least 2-3 hours apart.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, polyuria, polydipsia, muscle weakness, fatigue), renal impairment. Treatment involves discontinuing the supplement, hydration, and medical management of hypercalcemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy and lactation to meet increased calcium and vitamin D requirements. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosage.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia
- Hypercalciuria
- Severe renal impairment
- Known hypersensitivity to calcium salts or vitamin D analogues
- Hyperparathyroidism
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can interfere with bisphosphonate absorption. Take several hours apart.
Cardiac Glycosides
Hypercalcemia can potentiate the effects of cardiac glycosides, increasing risk of arrhythmias.
Thiazide Diuretics
May reduce calcium excretion, increasing risk of hypercalcemia.
Tetracyclines, Fluoroquinolones
Calcium can impair absorption of these antibiotics. Take at least 2-3 hours apart.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, polyuria, polydipsia, muscle weakness, fatigue), renal impairment. Treatment involves discontinuing the supplement, hydration, and medical management of hypercalcemia.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy and lactation to meet increased calcium and vitamin D requirements. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months
Availability
Available in all pharmacies and drug stores in Bangladesh
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Not applicable (Generic)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials support the efficacy of calcium and vitamin D supplementation in preventing and treating bone-related disorders.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially in patients with renal impairment or on long-term therapy)
- Serum 25(OH)D levels (for Vitamin D status)
- Renal function tests
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on dietary sources of calcium and vitamin D.
- Monitor serum calcium and vitamin D levels periodically, especially in high-risk patients.
- Counsel patients on potential drug interactions, particularly with antibiotics and thyroid hormones.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Take with food for better absorption.
- Report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.
- Ensure adequate fluid intake.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Silcal-O is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
- Engage in regular weight-bearing exercise to support bone health.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking, as they can negatively impact bone density.
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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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