Calcium Carbonate: Essential Bone Support and Acid Neutralization
Calcium Carbonate
| Product dosage: 250 mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 30 | $1.37 | $41.00 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 60 | $1.15 | $82.00 $69.00 (16%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $1.05 | $164.00 $126.00 (23%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $0.89 | $369.00 $240.00 (35%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.82
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| Product dosage: 500 mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 30 | $2.47 | $74.00 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 60 | $2.08 | $148.00 $125.00 (16%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $1.90 | $296.00 $228.00 (23%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $1.60 | $666.00 $433.00 (35%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $1.49
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Synonyms | |||
Calcium carbonate is a fundamental mineral compound widely utilized in medical and therapeutic contexts for its dual role in skeletal integrity and gastric acid management. As one of the most common forms of calcium supplementation, it offers high elemental calcium content per dose, supporting both preventive and treatment-based approaches in clinical practice. Its efficacy, safety profile, and cost-effectiveness make it a first-line option in mineral replenishment strategies and symptomatic relief of acid-related disorders.
Features
- High elemental calcium content (approximately 40% by weight)
- Rapid-acting antacid properties with predictable onset
- Generally well-tolerated with minimal systemic absorption when used as directed
- Available in multiple formulations including chewable tablets, capsules, and powder
- Often combined with vitamin D to enhance calcium absorption
- Cost-effective and widely accessible as both prescription and over-the-counter products
Benefits
- Supports bone mineral density and reduces fracture risk in osteoporotic patients
- Provides rapid relief from heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach
- Helps prevent calcium deficiency in at-risk populations including postmenopausal women
- Contributes to maintenance of normal nerve transmission and muscle function
- May support cardiovascular health through adequate calcium homeostasis
- Serves as phosphate binder in patients with chronic kidney disease
Common use
Calcium carbonate is predominantly indicated for the prevention and treatment of calcium deficiencies, particularly in conditions where calcium demand is elevated or absorption impaired. It is routinely prescribed for osteoporosis management, especially in postmenopausal women and elderly patients. As an antacid, it provides symptomatic relief for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, and general dyspepsia. In nephrology, it is employed as a phosphate-binding agent in chronic kidney disease patients to prevent hyperphosphatemia. Off-label uses include adjunct therapy in hypoparathyroidism and as a calcium source in total parenteral nutrition.
Dosage and direction
For osteoporosis prevention: 1000-1200 mg elemental calcium daily in divided doses, typically with meals. For treatment of deficiency: 1500-2000 mg daily in 3-4 divided doses. As an antacid: 500-1500 mg as symptoms occur, not to exceed 7000-8000 mg in 24 hours. As a phosphate binder: 1-2 grams with each meal, titrated to serum phosphate levels. Always administer with food to enhance absorption and reduce gastric irritation. Chewable tablets should be thoroughly masticated before swallowing; regular tablets should be taken with a full glass of water.
Precautions
Monitor serum calcium levels regularly during long-term therapy, particularly in patients with renal impairment or history of kidney stones. Use caution in patients with hypochlorhydria as absorption may be impaired. Avoid concomitant intake with iron supplements or tetracycline antibiotics due to absorption interference. In elderly patients, assess renal function before initiation and periodically during treatment. Patients with sarcoidosis or other granulomatous diseases require careful monitoring due to increased risk of hypercalcemia.
Contraindications
Hypercalcemia or conditions predisposing to hypercalcemia (including hyperparathyroidism, certain malignancies). Severe renal impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min) without dialysis. Calcium-containing kidney stones or history of nephrolithiasis. Hypersensitivity to calcium carbonate or any component of the formulation. Concurrent use with digoxin in cases of digitalis toxicity.
Possible side effect
Common: Constipation, flatulence, bloating. Less frequent: Nausea, vomiting, dry mouth. Rare: Hypercalcemia (manifesting as fatigue, confusion, polyuria, polydipsia), hypophosphatemia, milk-alkali syndrome (with excessive dosing). Local effects: Rebound acid secretion with prolonged high-dose antacid use.
Drug interaction
Significantly reduces absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracyclines, quinolones, levothyroxine, and iron supplements—separate administration by at least 2-4 hours. May potentiate effects of calcium channel blockers. Concomitant use with thiazide diuretics increases risk of hypercalcemia. Corticosteroids may reduce calcium absorption. Cholestyramine and mineral oil may decrease calcium absorption.
Missed dose
If a scheduled dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed administration. For antacid use, take as needed for symptom relief without regard to missed scheduled doses.
Overdose
Hypercalcemia may develop with excessive intake (>4-5 g elemental calcium daily). Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, anorexia, constipation, abdominal pain, lethargy, and confusion. Severe overdose can lead to renal impairment, cardiac arrhythmias, and coma. Treatment involves discontinuation, hydration, and loop diuretics. In severe cases, hemodialysis may be necessary. Milk-alkali syndrome may occur with chronic overdose.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-30°C/59-86°F) in original container with tight closure. Protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after expiration date. Chewable tablets may become hard and less effective if exposed to moisture.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual requirements may vary based on health status, age, and concomitant medications. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications. Not evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration for disease treatment.
Reviews
“After being diagnosed with osteopenia, my endocrinologist recommended calcium carbonate with vitamin D. Follow-up DEXA scans showed significant improvement in bone density over two years. The chewable formulation is convenient and doesn’t cause GI upset when taken with meals.” - Margaret T., 68
“As a gastroenterologist, I frequently recommend calcium carbonate as first-line therapy for mild to moderate GERD. Patients appreciate the rapid symptom relief and the additional benefit of calcium supplementation. The safety profile is excellent when used appropriately.” - Dr. Evan R., MD
“Managing phosphate levels in CKD patients requires reliable binders. Calcium carbonate remains a cost-effective option with good efficacy. We monitor calcium levels quarterly and adjust dosage based on laboratory results and dietary intake.” - Nephrology Nurse Practitioner, 12 years experience