Sycal
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate 500 mg
Manufacturer
Acme Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| sycal 500 mg tablet | ৳ 2.50 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Sycal 500 mg tablet is a dietary supplement containing Calcium Carbonate, used to prevent and treat calcium deficiencies and support bone health. It can also be used as an antacid for mild heartburn.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For calcium supplementation, 500-1000 mg elemental calcium per day, usually divided. For antacid use, 500-1500 mg as needed.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but caution with renal function. Monitor calcium levels regularly.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment may be necessary. Monitor calcium and phosphate levels. Contraindicated in severe hypercalcemia or renal failure.
How to Take
Oral administration. Take with food for better absorption, especially if used as a supplement. If used as an antacid, it can be taken with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium carbonate acts as a calcium supplement, providing essential calcium for bone formation, nerve transmission, muscle contraction, and blood coagulation. As an antacid, it neutralizes stomach acid.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
As a supplement, gradual effects over several hours to days. As an antacid, rapid onset within minutes.
Excretion
Primarily via kidneys (urine) for absorbed calcium and feces (unabsorbed calcium) for unabsorbed calcium.
Half life
Not directly applicable to elemental calcium, as it is a nutrient. Its regulation involves complex homeostatic mechanisms.
Absorption
Calcium carbonate is absorbed in the small intestine, primarily in the duodenum, requiring an acidic environment for optimal absorption. Approximately 20-30% of elemental calcium is absorbed.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized in the traditional sense; it is incorporated into bone and used in physiological processes.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels)
- Severe hypercalciuria (high urine calcium levels)
- History of calcium-containing kidney stones with hypercalciuria
- Hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
High calcium levels can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.
Levothyroxine
Calcium can reduce its absorption. Take calcium at least 4 hours apart.
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can reduce absorption. Take calcium at least 30 minutes apart.
Iron supplements
Calcium may interfere with iron absorption. Take at different times.
Thiazide diuretics
May decrease calcium excretion, increasing risk of hypercalcemia.
Tetracyclines/Fluoroquinolones
Calcium can reduce the absorption of these antibiotics. Take calcium at least 2-4 hours apart from these medications.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, thirst, polyuria, muscle weakness, confusion, kidney stones). Treatment involves discontinuing calcium, rehydration, and in severe cases, diuretics or calcitonin. Immediate medical attention is required.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and often recommended to meet increased calcium needs during pregnancy and lactation. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosage.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels)
- Severe hypercalciuria (high urine calcium levels)
- History of calcium-containing kidney stones with hypercalciuria
- Hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
High calcium levels can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.
Levothyroxine
Calcium can reduce its absorption. Take calcium at least 4 hours apart.
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can reduce absorption. Take calcium at least 30 minutes apart.
Iron supplements
Calcium may interfere with iron absorption. Take at different times.
Thiazide diuretics
May decrease calcium excretion, increasing risk of hypercalcemia.
Tetracyclines/Fluoroquinolones
Calcium can reduce the absorption of these antibiotics. Take calcium at least 2-4 hours apart from these medications.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, thirst, polyuria, muscle weakness, confusion, kidney stones). Treatment involves discontinuing calcium, rehydration, and in severe cases, diuretics or calcitonin. Immediate medical attention is required.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and often recommended to meet increased calcium needs during pregnancy and lactation. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Supermarkets
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities
Patent Status
Expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied for bone health and calcium deficiency. Most trials demonstrate efficacy in increasing bone mineral density and reducing fracture risk in specific populations. Also studied for its efficacy as an antacid.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (especially during high-dose therapy or renal impairment)
- Renal function (creatinine, eGFR)
- Serum phosphate levels
- 24-hour urine calcium (if hypercalciuria is suspected or for stone formers)
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on adequate fluid intake to prevent kidney stones, especially if predisposed.
- Caution in patients with a history of kidney stones, sarcoidosis, or conditions leading to hypercalcemia.
- Counsel patients on proper timing relative to other medications to avoid drug interactions.
- Evaluate Vitamin D status when prescribing for bone health.
Patient Guidelines
- Take with food for better absorption and to reduce stomach upset.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting a doctor.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking.
- Drink plenty of water to help prevent kidney stones.
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.
Driving Precautions
No known effects on driving ability.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D.
- Engage in regular weight-bearing exercise for bone health.
- Ensure adequate sunlight exposure for Vitamin D synthesis.
- Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine and alcohol.
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