name | Calcium Supplements (Generic) |
classification | Dietary Supplement, Mineral Supplement |
pharmacokinetics | Calcium absorption is affected by factors like vitamin D levels, dietary intake, and age. Absorption typically occurs in the small intestine. Calcium is primarily excreted by the kidneys. The rate of absorption and excretion can vary significantly between individuals. |
suggested dosage | The recommended dosage varies depending on the specific formulation and the patient's needs. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations. Common dosages range from 500mg to 1500mg per day, potentially split into multiple doses. Important note: Do not exceed the recommended daily intake without consulting a healthcare professional. Higher doses can cause adverse effects. |
indications | 1 | Prevention and treatment of calcium deficiency | 2 | Osteoporosis prevention and treatment | 3 | Osteopenia prevention and treatment | 4 | Certain conditions requiring increased calcium intake (e.g., during pregnancy or lactation) | 5 | Hypocalcemia | 6 | Post-menopausal bone loss |
|
safety in pregnancy | Calcium is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but the specific dosage and type should be determined by a healthcare professional. Increased calcium needs occur during pregnancy and may require supplementation. Consult with an obstetrician or other doctor. |
safety in breastfeeding | Calcium is considered generally safe during breastfeeding. However, the specific dosage and type of calcium supplement should be determined by a healthcare professional. Adequate calcium intake is crucial for both the mother and infant. |
side effects | 1 | Constipation | 2 | Nausea | 3 | Gas | 4 | Abdominal pain | 5 | Headache | 6 | Kidney stones (with high doses or in susceptible individuals) | 7 | Increased risk of cardiovascular events in patients with pre-existing conditions (e.g., kidney disease or a history of heart disease) – consult a healthcare professional. |
|
alternatives | 1 | Vitamin D | 2 | Other Calcium Supplements (e.g., calcium carbonate, calcium citrate, calcium lactate) | 3 | Bone health medications | 4 | Foods rich in calcium (e.g., dairy products, leafy greens) |
|
contraindications | 1 | Hypercalcemia | 2 | Severe kidney disease | 3 | Certain conditions requiring a low calcium diet (rare) | 4 | Known allergy to any component of the calcium supplement |
|
interactions | 1 | Certain medications (e.g., diuretics, thyroid hormone, some antibiotics, certain antacids) can interact with calcium supplements. | 2 | Vitamin D supplements can have additive effects with calcium supplements. Consult a healthcare professional to avoid exceeding recommended dosages. |
|
warnings and precautions | 1 | Individuals with kidney disease or a history of kidney stones should use caution and consult a healthcare professional before taking calcium supplements. | 2 | Do not take calcium supplements if you are taking other medications that may interact with them. Consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist to ensure no harmful drug interactions occur. | 3 | If you have concerns about high blood calcium levels, consult a healthcare professional. | 4 | Always follow the recommended dosage instructions. High dosages may result in adverse side effects. |
|
additional information | 1 | Calcium is an essential mineral required for strong bones and teeth, muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. | 2 | A balanced diet usually provides enough calcium to meet a person's daily needs, but supplementation may be necessary in certain cases. | 3 | Consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations based on individual needs and medical history. | 4 | Consult with your doctor before starting any new supplementation regimen. |
|
patient profile | |