This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Calcium carbonate is an antacid medication developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration for treating calcium deficiency.

Mechanism of Action of undefined

Calcium carbonate helps to treat calcium deficiency (insufficient levels of calcium) in the body. This drug is also prescribed to patients undergoing kidney dialysis. It helps to remove phosphate from the blood that cannot be adequately eliminated through dialysis.

Uses of undefined

Calcium carbonate provides the necessary building blocks for bone formation and maintenance. Calcium ions from the bloodstream are continuously deposited and withdrawn from the bones to maintain calcium balance.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Take the Calcium carbonate Tablet as advised by your physician. Do not chew or break the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.
 

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Avoid consuming this drug if you are allergic to Calcium carbonate or its other ingredients or have had difficulty breathing and skin rashes. This drug is generally not recommended if you have kidney stones or excessive amounts of calcium in your blood or urine. Talk to your physician if you have osteoporosis, cancer or are taking medicines for heart disorders before taking Calcium carbonate.

Precautions

Excessive consumption of Calcium carbonate may lead to hypercalcemia, characterized by elevated levels of calcium in the blood. Symptoms of hypercalcemia may include fatigue, nausea, constipation, excessive thirst, and frequent urination, and in severe cases, it can even lead to confusion, muscle weakness, and cardiac abnormalities.

Side Effects

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Calcium carbonate are headache, peripheral edema, dizziness, fatigue, constipation, and swelling particularly of the ankles and legs.

Word Of Advice

Ensure that you stay well-hydrated when taking calcium carbonate. Drinking enough water helps with its absorption and can prevent constipation, a common side effect of calcium supplementation. Try to obtain calcium from a balanced diet as well. Include calcium-rich foods like dairy products, leafy greens, almonds, and fortified foods.

Frequently Asked Question

References

  1. Kyowa Kirin Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on June 2022] [Accessed on 5th- June- 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1295.pdf
  2. Patient Information Leaflet- Calcium Carbonate. HPRA. Available at: https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/e10bdecd-bb14-44bb-9c05-0e3198789401.pdf [Accessed on 5th- June- 2023].
  3. Bertram.G.Katzung, Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, Therapeutic & Toxic Potential of Over-the-Counter Agents, 14th edition, 2017, 1123, 1089.

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.