apollo
0
  1. Home
  2. OTC
  3. Gemcal DS Capsule 15's

coupon
coupon
coupon
Extra 15% Off with Bank Offers

Manufacturer/Marketer :

Alkem Laboratories Ltd

Consume Type :

ORAL

Return Policy :

Not Returnable

Expires on or after :

About Gemcal DS Capsule

Gemcal DS Capsule is used to treat low blood calcium levels. It effectively treats various conditions caused by low calcium levels in the body, such as osteoporosis (weak and brittle bones), osteomalacia/rickets (weak bones), hypoparathyroidism (low levels of parathyroid hormone), and latent tetany (a muscle disease with low blood calcium levels).

Gemcal DS Capsule consists of Calcium, Calcitriol, and Menaquinone. Calcium provides essential nutrients to maintain bone formation and maintenance. Calcitriol raises Vitamin D levels and thereby increases calcium levels in the blood. Menaquinone helps to maintain bone density by promoting calcium transport from the bloodstream into the bone.

Gemcal DS Capsule can cause side effects such as constipation, stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, mood changes, weakness, tiredness, a fast or pounding heartbeat, bone/muscle pain, and headache. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention. However, if these side effects persist, please consult your doctor.

If you are known to be allergic to Gemcal DS Capsule or its inactive components, please inform your doctor. Please tell your doctor if you have hypercalcemia (high calcium levels), hypervitaminosis D (high vitamin D levels), and malabsorption syndrome (difficulty absorbing nutrients from food). Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before taking Gemcal DS Capsule .

Uses of Gemcal DS Capsule

Gemcal DS Capsule is used to treat low blood calcium levels. The detailed uses of Gemcal DS Capsule are as follows:

  • Osteoporosis: Gemcal DS Capsule helps strengthen weak and brittle bones by enhancing calcium absorption.
  • Osteomalacia/rickets: Gemcal DS Capsule treats abnormalities and softening of the bones due to a lack of calcium and vitamin D.
  • Hypoparathyroidism: Gemcal DS Capsule manages low calcium levels resulting from reduced parathyroid hormone production.
  • Latent tetany: Gemcal DS Capsule prevents and reduces the chances of muscle spasms and cramps due to low blood calcium.
  • Calcium deficiency in the elderly: Gemcal DS Capsule promotes bone health and lowers the risk of fractures in older adults.
  • Pregnancy and lactation: Gemcal DS Capsule helps meet increased calcium and vitamin D requirements during pregnancy and nursing.

Have a query?

Directions for Use

  • Take Gemcal DS Capsule with or without food as advised by your doctor.
  • Follow your doctor’s recommendations on the dosage and timing of this medication to achieve optimal results.
  • Swallow Gemcal DS Capsule as a whole with a glass of water.
  • Do not crush, chew, or break it.

Medicinal Benefits

  • Gemcal DS Capsule is used to treat low blood calcium levels and various associated conditions caused by low calcium levels in the body.
  • Gemcal DS Capsule consists of Calcium (mineral), Calcitriol (Vitamin D3), and Menaquinone (Vitamin K2).
  • Calcium is a mineral that helps prevent or treat calcium deficiency.
  • It helps to maintain bone and teeth health.
  • Calcitriol, a synthetic form of Vitamin D3, treats calcium deficiency, hypoparathyroidism (a condition where the parathyroid glands are inactive), and metabolic bone diseases in people with chronic kidney failure.
  • Menaquinone, also known as Vitamin K2, helps maintain bone density by promoting calcium transport from the bloodstream into the bone. Calcium-regulating proteins are also required in the arteries.

How Gemcal DS Capsule Works

Gemcal DS Capsule consists of three medicines: Calcium (mineral), Calcitriol (Vitamin D3), and Menaquinone (Vitamin K2). Calcium is a mineral that is used to prevent or treat a calcium deficiency. It provides essential nutrients to maintain bone formation and maintenance. Calcitriol is a synthetic version of Vitamin D3 and treats calcium deficiency with hypoparathyroidism (the parathyroid glands' decreased activity) and metabolic bone diseases in people with chronic kidney failure. It raises Vitamin D levels, thereby increasing calcium levels in the blood. This helps in improving the absorption rate of calcium from the intestine. Menaquinone is also known as Vitamin K2. Vitamin K2 helps to maintain bone density by promoting calcium transport from the bloodstream into the bone. Calcium-regulating proteins also require menaquinone in the arteries.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place away from sunlight. • Keep out of sight and reach of children. • Non cold chain - To be stored in cool places at 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.
Side effects of Gemcal DS Capsule
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Avoid dairy product such as cheese, milk, yogurt and ice cream.
  • Maintain healthy weight and exercise daily.
  • Following a low-calcium diet can help reduce hypercalcemia symptoms.
Here are the steps to cope with constipation as a side effect of medication:
  • Inform your doctor about your constipation symptoms. They may adjust your medication or advise alternative treatments.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking sufficient of water (at least 8-10 glasses a day) to help soften stool and promote bowel movements.
  • Increase fibre intake by eating foods high in fibre, such as fruits, whole grains, vegetables and legumes, to help bulk up the stool.
  • Establish a bowel routine by trying to go to the bathroom at the same time each day to train your bowels.
  • Engaging in regular exercise, like walking or yoga, can support in bowel movement stimulation.
  • Consult your doctor if constipation persists, and discuss alternative treatments or adjustments to your medication.
Dealing with Medication-Induced Headache:
  • Hydrate your body: Drink enough water to prevent dehydration and headaches.
  • Calm Your Mind: Deep breathing and meditation can help you relax and relieve stress.
  • Rest and Recharge: Sleep for 7-8 hours to reduce headache triggers.
  • Take rest: lie down in a quiet, dark environment.
  • Cold or warm compresses can help reduce tension.
  • Stay Upright: Maintain good posture to keep symptoms from getting worse.
  • To treat headaches naturally, try acupuncture or massage therapy.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers include acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
  • Prescription Assistance: Speak with your doctor about more substantial drug alternatives.
  • Severe Headaches: Seek emergency medical assistance for sudden, severe headaches.
  • Frequent Headaches: If you get reoccurring headaches, consult your doctor.
  • Headaches with Symptoms: Seek medical attention if your headaches include fever, disorientation, or weakness.
  • Reduce sodium intake to minimize calcium excretion in urine.
  • Limit animal protein consumption to decrease urinary calcium levels.
  • Increase fluid intake by drinking plenty of water to dilute urine.
  • Moderate calcium intake based on individual needs, avoiding drastic restriction.
  • Limit oxalate-rich foods like spinach and chocolate to minimize kidney stone formation.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Consider reducing vitamin D supplementation if excessive intake is contributing to hypercalciuria.
  • Regularly monitor urine calcium levels through 24-hour urine tests.
  • Always seek guidance from a healthcare expert prior to implementing substantial changes to your diet or lifestyle routine.
Managing Medication-Triggered UTIs: A Comprehensive Approach:
  • Inform your doctor about the medication you're taking and the UTI symptoms you're experiencing.
  • Your doctor may adjust your medication regimen or consider alternative medications or dosages that may reduce the risk of UTIs.
  • Drink plenty of water (at least 8-10 glasses a day) to help flush out bacteria. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine, which can exacerbate UTI symptoms.
  • Urinate when you feel the need rather than holding it in. This can help prevent bacterial growth and reduce the risk of UTIs.
  • Consider cranberry supplements: Cranberry supplements may help prevent UTIs by preventing bacterial adhesion.
  • Monitor UTI symptoms and report any changes to your doctor.
  • If antibiotics are prescribed, take them as directed and complete the full course.

What if I have taken an overdose of Gemcal DS Capsule

Do not take more than the prescribed dose of Gemcal DS Capsule as it may cause serious adverse effects. If you suspect you have taken an overdose, please consult a doctor immediately.

Drug Warnings

  • Let your doctor know if you are allergic to Gemcal DS Capsule or its inactive components.
  • Brief your medical history if you have any heart/kidney/liver/blood vessel diseases, kidney stones, sarcoidosis, Crohn's disease, Whipple's disease, achlorhydria (little or no stomach acid), low levels of bile, and phosphate imbalance. 
  • Calcitriol in higher doses may harm the foetus.
  • Higher doses of Vitamin D than the recommended daily dose should be used in pregnant women only when advised by the doctor.
  • Gemcal DS Capsule may pass into the breast milk; hence, consult your doctor before taking Gemcal DS Capsule if you are a breastfeeding mother.

Drug-Drug Interactions

verifiedApollotooltip
CalcitriolDihydrotachysterol
Severe

Drug-Drug Interactions

Login/Sign Up

How does the drug interact with Gemcal DS Capsule:
Co-administration of Isoniazid with Gemcal DS Capsule may decrease the effects of Gemcal DS Capsule.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is an interaction, Gemcal DS Capsule can be taken with isoniazid if prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop using any medications without talking to a doctor. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting a doctor.
CalcitriolDihydrotachysterol
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gemcal DS Capsule:
Co-administration of Gemcal DS Capsule with Dihydrotachysterol can increase the risk of adverse effects.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Dihydrotachysterol with Gemcal DS Capsule can possibly result in an interaction, but it can be taken if your doctor has advised it. If you notice any of these symptoms - irregular heartbeat, seizures, weakness, tiredness, headache, dizziness, ringing in the ears, loss of appetite, feeling sick, throwing up, constipation, dry mouth, strange taste in your mouth, muscle or bone pain, trouble coordinating movements, weak muscles, peeing a lot, feeling very thirsty, losing weight, eye infection, sensitivity to light, itching, or a higher body temperature - make sure to call a doctor right away. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
CalcitriolDigitoxin
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gemcal DS Capsule:
Co-administration of Gemcal DS Capsule with Digitoxin may increase the risk or severity of digitoxin toxicity and irregular heart rhythm.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is an interaction, Gemcal DS Capsule can be taken with Digitoxin if prescribed by the doctor. Consult the prescriber if you experience symptoms that could indicate high blood calcium, such as weakness, fatigue, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, ringing in the ears, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, a metallic taste in the mouth, bone or muscle pain, incoordination, frequent urination, and weight loss. Also, seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of digitoxin toxicity, such as blurred vision, slow pulse, or irregular heartbeats. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting a doctor.
How does the drug interact with Gemcal DS Capsule:
Co-administration of Orlistat with Gemcal DS Capsule may reduce the levels of Gemcal DS Capsule which can lead to low treatment outcomes.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is an interaction, Gemcal DS Capsule can be taken with Orlistat when prescribed by the doctor. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
CalcitriolMetolazone
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gemcal DS Capsule:
Co-administration of Metolazone with Gemcal DS Capsule can cause blood calcium levels to become too high.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is an interaction, Gemcal DS Capsule can be taken with metolazone if prescribed by the doctor. Consult the doctor if you experience symptoms such as dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, lethargy, headache, nausea, vomiting, or seizures. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting a doctor.
How does the drug interact with Gemcal DS Capsule:
Co-administration of Cholecalciferol and Gemcal DS Capsule are forms of vitamin D, and taking too much vitamin D may lead to toxic effects.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is a possible interaction between colecalciferol and Gemcal DS Capsule, you can take these medicines together if prescribed by your doctor. If you notice any of these symptoms - irregular heartbeat, seizures, weakness, tiredness, headache, dizziness, ringing in the ears, loss of appetite, feeling sick, dry mouth, strange taste in your mouth, muscle or bone pain, thirst, losing weight, eye infection, sensitivity to light, runny nose or itching - contact a doctor right away. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
CalcitriolCalcifediol
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gemcal DS Capsule:
Co-administration of Calcifediol and Gemcal DS Capsule are forms of vitamin D, and taking too much vitamin D may lead to toxic effects related to increased calcium levels in the blood and urine.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Calcifediol with Gemcal DS Capsule can lead to an interaction, it can be taken if advised by a doctor. Consult the prescriber if you experience symptoms of vitamin D intoxication such as weakness, headache, fatigue, drowsiness, vertigo, ringing in the ears, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, metallic taste, muscle pain, bone pain, muscle incoordination, and low muscle tone. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting a doctor.
CalcitriolBurosumab
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gemcal DS Capsule:
Co-administration of Gemcal DS Capsule and Burosumab may cause increases in phosphorus and vitamin D levels in the blood, which may lead to an increased risk of kidney stones.

How to manage the interaction:
There may be a possibility of interaction between Gemcal DS Capsule and Burosumab, but it can be taken if prescribed by a doctor. If you have any of these symptoms like kidney stones, it's important to contact a doctor right away. Do not stop using any medications without a doctor's advice. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting a doctor.
How does the drug interact with Gemcal DS Capsule:
Co-administration of Doxercalciferol and Gemcal DS Capsule are forms of vitamin D, and taking too much vitamin D may lead to toxic effects related to increased calcium levels in the blood and urine.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Doxercalciferol with Gemcal DS Capsule can lead to an interaction, it can be taken if advised by a doctor. Consult the prescriber if you experience symptoms of vitamin D intoxication such as weakness, fatigue, headache, vertigo, drowsiness, ringing in the ears, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, metallic taste, muscle pain, bone pain, muscle incoordination, and low muscle tone. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting a doctor.
CalcitriolFosphenytoin
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gemcal DS Capsule:
Taking Gemcal DS Capsule with Fosphenytoin can reduce the levels and efficacy of Gemcal DS Capsule.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Gemcal DS Capsule with Fosphenytoin together can possibly result in an interaction, but it can be taken if a doctor has advised it. If you notice any symptoms of sudden dizziness, weakness, chest pain or pressure, abnormal body movements, uncontrollable eye movements, itching, burning, or tingling sensation, it's important to contact a doctor right away. Do not stop using any medications without a doctor's advice. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting a doctor.

Drug-Food Interactions

verifiedApollotooltip
No Drug - Food interactions found in our database. Some may be unknown. Consult your doctor for what to avoid during medication.

Drug-Food Interactions

Login/Sign Up

Diet & Lifestyle Advise

  • Include dairy products like milk, yoghurt, cheese or milk-based custard in your diet.
  • Eat a serving of broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, spinach, and other green leafy vegetables daily.
  • Snack on calcium-rich nuts like Brazil nuts or almonds. 
  • Sprinkle sesame seeds over your food, vegetables and salads. Sesame seeds are high in calcium.
  • Avoid or reduce the intake of caffeine, soft drinks and alcohol that inhibit calcium absorption.
  • Replace the meat with tofu or tempeh for extra calcium in your food.

Habit Forming

No

Therapeutic Class

MULTIMINERALS

Gemcal DS Capsule Substitute

Substitutes safety advice
bannner image

Alcohol

Caution

Drinking alcohol can affect calcium absorption; hence it is advised to limit the alcohol intake while using Gemcal DS Capsule .

bannner image

Pregnancy

Caution

During pregnancy, use higher doses of Gemcal DS Capsule than the daily dietary allowance only when advised by the doctor. Your doctor will weigh the potential risks and benefits before recommending Gemcal DS Capsule .

bannner image

Breast Feeding

Consult your doctor

Consult your doctor before taking Gemcal DS Capsule if you are breastfeeding. Gemcal DS Capsule can pass into the breast milk. If Gemcal DS Capsule is used during breastfeeding, please monitor the mother and the infant's serum calcium levels.

bannner image

Driving

Safe if prescribed

No interaction found/established.

bannner image

Liver

Consult your doctor

Let your doctor know if you have any history of liver diseases before taking Gemcal DS Capsule . Hepatic impairment/liver disease can alter the metabolic and therapeutic activity of certain Vitamin D forms.

bannner image

Kidney

Consult your doctor

It is advised to seek a doctor's advice before starting Gemcal DS Capsule if you have kidney diseases like kidney stones or are undergoing dialysis.

bannner image

Children

Consult your doctor

The doctor will decide the dosage of Gemcal DS Capsule based on the child's age and weight.

FAQs

Gemcal DS Capsule is used to treat low blood calcium levels. Gemcal DS Capsule effectively treats various conditions caused by low calcium levels in the body, such as osteoporosis (weak and brittle bones), osteomalacia/rickets (weak bones), hypoparathyroidism (low levels of parathyroid hormone), and latent tetany (a muscle disease with low blood calcium levels).

Gemcal DS Capsule is a dietary supplement that treats low levels of calcium in the blood. It consists of Calcium, Calcitriol, and Menaquinone. Calcium is a mineral and prevents or treats calcium deficiency. Calcitriol, a synthetic form of Vitamin D3, treats calcium deficiency with hypoparathyroidism (the decreased activity of the parathyroid glands). Menaquinone (Vitamin K2) maintains bone density by promoting calcium transport from the bloodstream into the bone.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and follow your usual dosage.

Milk is considered to be the best source of calcium. You can take Gemcal DS Capsule with milk.

Gemcal DS Capsule can cause kidney stones due to excess calcium deposition when used for a prolonged period. Please consult your doctor before taking Gemcal DS Capsule as a daily supplement if you have any kidney problems or a history of kidney stones.

Gemcal DS Capsule is used to increase low calcium levels in the body. Hence, it is not advised to use Gemcal DS Capsule during hypercalcemia since it causes an overdose of calcium, leading to kidney stones and other effects.

Calcitriol in Gemcal DS Capsule can increase inorganic phosphate levels in serum; hence, it should be used cautiously in patients undergoing dialysis to maintain adequate phosphorus levels and avoid ectopic calcification (calcium deposition). It is advised to follow a low-phosphate diet to control serum phosphorus levels in patients undergoing dialysis.

Take Gemcal DS Capsule as advised by the doctor, preferably after a meal.

Gemcal DS Capsule can cause side effects like constipation or stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, mood changes, weakness, tiredness, fast or pounding heartbeat, bone/muscle pain, and headache. If these side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.

Gemcal DS Capsule is a combination medicine containing supplements that aid bone health.

The key ingredients in Gemcal DS Capsule are calcium (mineral), calcitriol (Vitamin D3), and menaquinone (Vitamin K2).

Gemcal DS Capsule increases calcium levels in the blood and maintains bone density by promoting the transport of calcium from the bloodstream into the bone.

Gemcal DS Capsule can be taken by people who have low calcium levels and bone problems. Please consult the doctor; your doctor will recommend Gemcal DS Capsule based on your condition.

A low phosphate diet is recommended to control serum phosphorus levels in patients undergoing dialysis. Clinical monitoring of serum electrolyte concentrations and cardiac function is recommended. Drinking alcohol can affect calcium absorption; hence it is advised to limit the alcohol intake while using Gemcal DS Capsule .

Country of origin

India

Manufacturer/Marketer address

Alkem Laboratories Limited, Devashish Building, Alkem House, Senapati Bapat Road, Lower Parel, Mumbai - 400 013.
Other Info - GEM0107

Disclaimer

While we strive to provide complete, accurate, and expert-reviewed content on our 'Platform', we make no warranties or representations and disclaim all responsibility and liability for the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the aforementioned content. The content on our platform is for informative purposes only, and may not cover all clinical/non-clinical aspects. Reliance on any information and subsequent action or inaction is solely at the user's risk, and we do not assume any responsibility for the same. The content on the Platform should not be considered or used as a substitute for professional and qualified medical advice. Please consult your doctor for any query pertaining to medicines, tests and/or diseases, as we support, and do not replace the doctor-patient relationship.

Author Details

Doctor imageWe provide you with authentic, trustworthy and relevant information

whatsapp Floating Button

Recommended for a 30-day course: 2 Strips

Buy Now
Add 2 Strips