Ultracal-C
Generic Name
Calcium Carbonate + Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
Manufacturer
Popular Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| ultracal c 1000 mg tablet | ৳ 10.54 | ৳ 94.86 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ultracal-C 1000 mg tablet is a combination of Calcium Carbonate and Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) used to support bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. It helps in the prevention and treatment of calcium and vitamin C deficiencies.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically, 1 tablet daily or as directed by a physician. The tablet can be chewed or swallowed whole.
Elderly
Similar to adults, but dosage may need to be adjusted based on individual health status and renal function. Consult a physician.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage adjustments may be necessary due to altered calcium and vitamin C excretion. Regular monitoring of serum calcium levels is recommended. Consult a physician.
How to Take
Oral administration, preferably with or after meals to enhance absorption and minimize gastrointestinal upset.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium is essential for maintaining bone mineral density, nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and various enzymatic reactions. Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, crucial for collagen synthesis, immune system enhancement, and improved iron absorption.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Nutritional and therapeutic effects develop gradually over time with regular use, not immediate.
Excretion
Calcium is primarily excreted via kidneys and feces. Ascorbic acid and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine.
Half life
Calcium: Complex kinetics, half-life varies significantly. Ascorbic acid: Approximately 2-3 hours at normal physiological concentrations, but can be dose-dependent.
Absorption
Calcium is absorbed primarily in the small intestine, with absorption efficiency varying based on diet and physiological needs. Ascorbic acid is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, mainly in the small intestine, via active transport and facilitated diffusion.
Metabolism
Calcium is not metabolized but is incorporated into bone or excreted. Ascorbic acid is partially metabolized to inactive metabolites, including oxalic acid.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the tablet
- Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels)
- Severe renal impairment or renal calculus (kidney stones), especially calcium oxalate stones
- Hypercalciuria (high calcium levels in urine)
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can interfere with bisphosphonate absorption. Administer at least 30 minutes apart.
Iron supplements
Vitamin C can increase iron absorption.
Tetracyclines & Quinolones
Calcium can decrease the absorption of these antibiotics. Administer at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium.
Antacids containing aluminum
Vitamin C can increase aluminum absorption.
Thyroid hormones (Levothyroxine)
Calcium can reduce levothyroxine absorption. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, polyuria) and gastrointestinal upset. Very high doses of Vitamin C may lead to diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and an increased risk of kidney stones in susceptible individuals. Management involves discontinuing the product and supportive care.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe at recommended doses. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before taking this medicine.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the tablet
- Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels)
- Severe renal impairment or renal calculus (kidney stones), especially calcium oxalate stones
- Hypercalciuria (high calcium levels in urine)
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Calcium can interfere with bisphosphonate absorption. Administer at least 30 minutes apart.
Iron supplements
Vitamin C can increase iron absorption.
Tetracyclines & Quinolones
Calcium can decrease the absorption of these antibiotics. Administer at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium.
Antacids containing aluminum
Vitamin C can increase aluminum absorption.
Thyroid hormones (Levothyroxine)
Calcium can reduce levothyroxine absorption. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, polyuria) and gastrointestinal upset. Very high doses of Vitamin C may lead to diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and an increased risk of kidney stones in susceptible individuals. Management involves discontinuing the product and supportive care.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe at recommended doses. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before taking this medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Supermarkets
Approval Status
Over-the-counter (OTC)
Patent Status
Generic/Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Efficacy and safety of calcium and vitamin C as supplements are well-established through numerous clinical studies on their individual components and combinations. Specific brand-level clinical trial data for Ultracal-C may not be widely published.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum calcium levels (if concerned about hypercalcemia or in patients with renal impairment)
- Renal function tests (e.g., creatinine, BUN)
- Urine oxalate levels (in cases of very high Vitamin C intake or kidney stone history)
Doctor Notes
- Assess patient's dietary intake of calcium and vitamin C before recommending supplementation.
- Monitor serum calcium levels in patients with pre-existing conditions affecting calcium metabolism or renal impairment.
- Advise patients on appropriate hydration to reduce the risk of kidney stone formation, especially with higher doses of Vitamin C.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as directed by your doctor or as indicated on the package label.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting a healthcare professional.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children.
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 to compensate.
Driving Precautions
Ultracal-C 1000 mg tablet is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin C.
- Ensure adequate physical activity and exposure to sunlight for Vitamin D synthesis, which aids calcium absorption.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can interfere with calcium metabolism.
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Global Brand Names
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