Calcium

Dosage Forms Available

• Calcium is available in several dosage forms for oral administration, including tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and liquid forms. It can also be found in effervescent (dissolvable) tablets.

• In addition to this, calcium is also available as an injection that can be administered through the intravenous or intramuscular route in a clinical setting.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Calcium can be used by people of all age groups, starting from infants to adults.

• The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) varies according to the age and sex of the individual.

Contraindications

• Calcium supplementation is contraindicated in people with hypercalcemia, a condition characterised by excessively high levels of calcium in the blood.

• It is also contraindicated in individuals with severe kidney disease or kidney stones due to a high risk of further complications.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Calcium may interact with certain medications such as bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate and risedronate), antibiotics (e.g., quinolones and tetracyclines), thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine and calcitonin), anti-seizure medications (e.g., phenytoin and ezogabine), and thiazide diuretics.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of calcium may result in hypercalcemia, which can cause symptoms such as excessive thirst and urination, nausea, vomiting, constipation, mental confusion, abnormal heart rhythm, and kidney stones. If such symptoms are observed after taking excessive calcium, it is important to inform your doctor immediately.

• If you miss a dose of your calcium supplement, take it as soon as you remember, but do not double dose to compensate for the missed dose.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing calcium supplementation. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Common side effects such as gas, bloating, and constipation can be managed by taking smaller doses more frequently throughout the day, drinking plenty of water, and balancing your intake of calcium with magnesium.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Calcium does not affect one's ability to drive or operate machinery. You should be able to continue these activities normally while taking calcium supplements.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Calcium is generally safe for use during pregnancy and lactation. However, it is always advisable to consult your doctor before starting any new medication or supplement during these periods.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with kidney disease should exercise caution while taking calcium supplements, as these may increase the risk of developing kidney stones.

• Individuals with parathyroid gland disorders or sarcoidosis also need to be cautious, as these conditions can cause the body to process calcium differently.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Ensure a diet rich in calcium-containing foods such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, fish with edible bones, and fortified food items.

• Regular weight-bearing exercise helps build and maintain bone mass; this is especially important when taking calcium for bone health.

• Adequate intake of vitamin D improves calcium absorption. Sun exposure, consuming vitamin D-rich foods, or taking supplements can help meet vitamin D requirements.

• Avoid excessive intake of protein, sodium, caffeine, and alcohol, as they can interfere with calcium absorption.