Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium
Uses of Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium
Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium is mainly used for the management of vitamin D deficiency and conditions related to low blood calcium levels. It falls under the class of vitamin and mineral supplements.
Secondary uses of this combination medication include the prevention and treatment of bone disorders such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia, and rickets, management of hypoparathyroidism, and supplementation for certain groups including pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, postmenopausal women, and elderly individuals.
Side effects of Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium
Nausea
Vomiting
Constipation
Abdominal pain
Excessive thirst
How Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium works
Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium is a combination medicine used for calcium supplementation and bone health.
Alfacalcidol is a synthetic form of Vitamin D. It gets converted into the active form of Vitamin D in your body, which helps to regulate the absorption of calcium and phosphate from your diet. It also helps in maintaining proper calcium levels in your body.
Elemental Calcium provides additional calcium, which is a vital mineral needed for various bodily functions like bone mineralisation, nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and blood clotting.
Together, Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium work synergistically to increase the absorption of calcium in the intestines, promote calcium deposition in the bones, and reduce calcium elimination in the kidneys. This results in increased blood calcium levels, supporting overall bone health.
Certified content
Written By
Doctor of Medicine
Reviewed By
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium is available as an oral medication.
Age and Dose Restrictions
This combination is suitable for adults, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and elderly individuals.
It may also be recommended for children under the guidance of a doctor.
Contraindications
Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium is contraindicated in patients with hypercalcemia or high blood levels of vitamin D.
It should also not be used in patients with severe renal impairment.
Patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation should avoid this medication.
Other Medications to Avoid
This combination can interact with thiazide diuretics (such as hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone), digoxin, antacids containing magnesium, corticosteroids (like prednisone, dexamethasone), and bile acid sequestrants (like cholestyramine and mineral oil).
Overdose and Missed Dose
An overdose of Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium can result in hypercalcemia with symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, confusion, and fatigue. If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
If you miss a dose of this combination, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and stick to your regular dosing schedule.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects of Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium are temporary and will disappear on their own once your body adjusts to the medicine. However, if they persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.
Drinking plenty of water can help manage constipation.
Taking this medicine with meals may help reduce gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and vomiting.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium may cause fatigue or confusion in some people. If you experience these side effects, avoid driving and operating machinery.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium may be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding only if advised by a doctor. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy or while nursing.
Caution in Other Conditions
Caution is advised for patients with kidney disease or kidney stones, or malabsorption syndromes that affect calcium and vitamin D absorption. Always consult your doctor before starting Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Regular exercise can help strengthen bones and manage conditions like osteoporosis and osteomalacia that this medication treats.
Including calcium-rich foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and fish in your diet can support bone health.
Limiting caffeine and alcohol, which can decrease the absorption of calcium, can aid this medicine's effectiveness.
Sunlight exposure helps the body produce vitamin D naturally; spending time outdoors can assist in managing vitamin D deficiency.
Frequently asked questions
Can Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium cause any impact on my appetite?
Whilst some medicines may affect appetite, there is no known evidence that Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium directly influences appetite. However, everyone is different and if you notice any unusual changes to your appetite or eating habits while taking this medication, it may be worth discussing this with your doctor.
Is Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Yes, Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. There are no animal-derived ingredients in this medication.
Is there a risk of becoming dependent on Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium if I take it for a long time?
No, there is no evidence to suggest that people can become dependent on Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium. This medication is used to manage vitamin D deficiency and low blood calcium levels.
How quickly does Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium start working in the body?
The speed at which Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium starts working can vary depending on the individual and the condition being managed. In general, changes in blood calcium levels can occur within a few weeks.
Are there any natural alternatives to Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium?
There are natural sources of both vitamin D and calcium which are essential for maintaining healthy bones. For vitamin D, sunlight exposure and foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods are good sources. Calcium can be obtained from dietary sources like dairy products, green leafy vegetables, tofu, nuts and seeds.
What happens if I suddenly stop taking Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium?
If you stop taking Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium suddenly without consulting your doctor, it may lead to a recurrence of your symptoms or side effects related to low blood calcium levels. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your medication regime.
Can Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium be taken with multivitamins?
Whilst it is generally safe to take Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium with multivitamins, it is important to check with your doctor first as certain vitamins and minerals can interact with this medication.
Alfacalcidol + Elemental Calcium in other salts
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