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Calcium Carbonate: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Calcium Carbonate is used for the following indications, classified by strength of evidence: Established / FDA-approved uses Prevention and treatment of calcium deficiency (dietary supplementation)…

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About Calcium Carbonate

Indications of Calcium Carbonate

Calcium Carbonate is used for the following indications, classified by strength of evidence:

Established / FDA-approved uses

  • Prevention and treatment of calcium deficiency (dietary supplementation) when dietary calcium intake is inadequate.
  • Relief of symptoms of acid indigestion, heartburn, and upset stomach, when used as an antacid at antacid-labeled doses.

Guideline-supported uses

  • Adjunctive therapy in the prevention and management of osteoporosis, used together with adequate vitamin D intake and, where indicated, prescription osteoporosis medications, consistent with guidance from bodies such as the National Osteoporosis Foundation.
  • Management of hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease, where Calcium Carbonate is used as a phosphate binder under medical supervision.

Adjunct / combination-therapy uses

  • As a calcium source in combination with vitamin D3 for bone-health support, particularly in postmenopausal women and older adults.

Calcium Carbonate is not an antibiotic and has no role in treating infections.

Dosage & Administration of Calcium Carbonate

Calcium Deficiency / Supplementation

PopulationTypical Dose
Adults500-1,000 mg elemental calcium (as Calcium Carbonate) per day, in divided doses, taken with meals
ChildrenDose individualized by age/weight; see Use in Special Populations

Antacid (Heartburn / Acid Indigestion)

Chew 1-2 tablets of Calcium Carbonate (strength per product labeling) as symptoms occur; do not exceed the maximum daily dose stated on the product label for Calcium Carbonate, and do not use for more than 2 weeks without medical advice.

Osteoporosis Prevention/Management (Adjunct)

1,000-1,200 mg elemental calcium daily (as Calcium Carbonate, in divided doses), combined with adequate vitamin D intake, as directed by a physician.

Hyperphosphatemia (Chronic Kidney Disease, Specialist Use)

Dose of Calcium Carbonate is individualized based on serum phosphate levels, under nephrology supervision.

Renal impairment: use of Calcium Carbonate for general supplementation requires caution and specialist guidance in significant renal impairment (see Precautions and Warnings and Contraindications).

Side Effects of Calcium Carbonate

Common side effects of Calcium Carbonate include:

  • Constipation
  • Gas, bloating, and belching
  • Upset stomach or mild nausea

Less common but more serious effects, generally associated with excessive or prolonged high-dose use of Calcium Carbonate, include hypercalcemia (fatigue, confusion, muscle weakness, increased thirst/urination), milk-alkali syndrome, and kidney stones. Rebound acid hypersecretion may occur with long-term antacid use of Calcium Carbonate. Seek medical attention if severe or persistent symptoms occur.

Contraindications of Calcium Carbonate

Calcium Carbonate is contraindicated in patients with:

  • Known hypersensitivity to Calcium Carbonate or any component of the formulation.
  • Hypercalcemia.
  • Hypervitaminosis D.
  • Severe renal impairment/renal failure, for general calcium supplementation (unless Calcium Carbonate is specifically directed as a phosphate binder under nephrology supervision).

Frequently Asked Questions about Calcium Carbonate

What is Calcium Carbonate used for?

Calcium Carbonate is used to prevent and treat calcium deficiency, as an adjunct in osteoporosis prevention and management, and as an antacid for fast relief of heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach.

How should I take Calcium Carbonate for best absorption?

Calcium Carbonate should be taken with food, since it needs stomach acid to dissolve properly. If you need more than 500 mg of elemental calcium a day, split the doses of Calcium Carbonate throughout the day rather than taking it all at once.

Can I take Calcium Carbonate with other medications?

Calcium Carbonate can reduce the absorption of certain medicines, including tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics, bisphosphonates, and levothyroxine. Separate these medications from Calcium Carbonate by at least 2-4 hours, or as advised by your physician or pharmacist.

Is Calcium Carbonate safe during pregnancy?

Calcium Carbonate at recommended doses is commonly used and considered beneficial during pregnancy to support maternal and fetal bone health, but it should be taken only as directed, and pregnant women should consult a physician before starting or adjusting Calcium Carbonate supplementation.

What happens if I take too much Calcium Carbonate?

Taking too much Calcium Carbonate can cause hypercalcemia, with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, and muscle weakness, and in severe cases can affect the heart and kidneys. If you suspect an overdose of Calcium Carbonate, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.

Who should not take Calcium Carbonate?

Calcium Carbonate should not be used by people with hypercalcemia, hypervitaminosis D, severe renal impairment, or known hypersensitivity to Calcium Carbonate. People with a history of kidney stones should use Calcium Carbonate only under medical supervision.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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