Calcium Carbonate [Elemental source]: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Calcium Carbonate [Elemental source] is indicated for the following uses, classified by strength of evidence:

Established / well-supported uses

• Calcium supplementation: Prevention and treatment of calcium deficiency in individuals with inadequate dietary intake, increased calcium requirements (e.g., pregnancy, lactation, growth), or documented hypocalcemia.
• Adjunct in osteoporosis: Used together with vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and (where prescribed) specific osteoporosis medications (e.g., bisphosphonates) to support bone mineral density in the prevention and management of osteoporosis. Calcium Carbonate [Elemental source] alone is not a substitute for prescribed osteoporosis therapy when one is indicated.
• Antacid (over-the-counter use): Symptomatic relief of heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach, at antacid-range doses.

Adjunct / guideline-supported uses

• Adjunct to phosphate binding in chronic kidney disease (as a calcium-based phosphate binder), under direct medical supervision only.
• Adjunct management in conditions of increased calcium loss (e.g., long-term corticosteroid use) as advised by a physician.

Calcium Carbonate [Elemental source] should be used for indications and at doses recommended by a physician or pharmacist, since it is available both as a nutritional supplement and as an over-the-counter antacid.

As a calcium supplement (calcium deficiency, osteoporosis adjunct)

As an antacid (heartburn/acid indigestion, OTC use)

Typically 500 mg to 1500 mg (as calcium carbonate) taken as needed for symptom relief, not to exceed the maximum daily dose stated on the product label; do not use the maximum antacid dose for more than 2 weeks continuously without consulting a physician.

Administration

Take Calcium Carbonate [Elemental source] with food for optimal absorption when used as a calcium supplement, unless otherwise directed. Divide larger daily doses (e.g., more than 500 mg elemental calcium at one time) into two or more doses to improve absorption. Chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing; oral suspensions should be shaken well before use. Do not exceed the total combined calcium intake recommended from diet, supplements, and antacid use (see Precautions and Warnings).

Calcium Carbonate [Elemental source] is generally well tolerated at recommended doses. Reported side effects include:

• Common: Constipation, bloating, gas/flatulence, and mild stomach upset.
• Less common: Nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, and headache.
• With excessive or prolonged high-dose use: Hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, and (rarely) milk-alkali syndrome (see Precautions and Warnings and Overdose Effects).