Elemental Calcium
About Elemental Calcium
Elemental Calcium is a calcium supplement used effectively in treating various conditions like Vitamin D deficiency, osteoporosis, hypoparathyroidism (low levels of parathyroid hormone), and latent tetany (a muscle disease with low blood calcium levels) caused by low calcium levels in the body.
To get the most benefit, take Elemental Calcium regularly and at the same time each day as directed by your doctor. You can take this medication with or without food, though taking it with a meal can help improve absorption and reduce stomach upset. Incorporating weight-bearing exercises and a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and dairy can further support your bone health.
Most people tolerate this supplement well, but some may experience mild stomach upset or constipation. If you develop severe side effects, such as persistent nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness, or signs of kidney problems, stop taking it and consult your doctor immediately.
Talk to your doctor before starting Elemental Calcium if you have a history of kidney stones, high levels of calcium in your blood, or kidney disease. Do not take this if you have been diagnosed with hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood) or severe kidney impairment.
This supplement can interact with other medicines, including certain antibiotics and thyroid drugs, by reducing how well they are absorbed. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or an older adult, consult your healthcare provider to ensure this is the right option for your specific nutritional needs.
Uses of Elemental Calcium
Medicinal Benefits
Elemental Calcium provides vital support for skeletal health, helping to keep your bones dense and strong.
Benefits may include:
- By maintaining adequate calcium levels, it helps prevent the gradual weakening of bone tissue, reducing the likelihood of unexpected bone fractures and allowing you to maintain active, pain-free movement.
- In addition to bone health, this supplement supports everyday physical functions.
- It helps prevent painful muscle cramps and spasms by ensuring your muscles have the calcium they need to contract and relax properly.
- It also supports steady nerve transmission throughout your body, helping you feel your best during daily activities.
Directions for Use
- Take Elemental Calcium with food for better absorption, or as advised by the doctor.
- Follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and timing to ensure optimal effectiveness.
- Swallow Elemental Calcium as a whole with a glass of water.
- Do not crush, chew, or break it.
Storage
Side Effects of Elemental Calcium
Common Side Effects (Usually mild)
- Constipation or hard stools
- Gas, bloating, or flatulence
- Upset stomach or mild nausea
Serious Side Effects (Call a doctor right away)
- Signs of high calcium levels, such as constant nausea, vomiting, severe constipation, unusual tiredness, or unexplained weight loss
- Signs of kidney stones, including sharp pain in your back or side, painful urination, or blood in your urine
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as a skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and severe dizziness or trouble breathing
Medicines Containing this Salt
View AllDrug Warnings
- Check the expiry date: Check the expiry date on the packaging before taking Elemental Calcium; do not use the medication if it has expired.
- Inspect the tablets: Inspect the tablets before use. If you notice any discolouration, crumbling, or damage to the product, do not take it and speak to your pharmacist.
- Avoid accidental double-dosing: Be cautious when taking other over-the-counter multivitamin supplements or antacids, as they may also contain calcium and lead to accidental double-dosing.
- Monitor kidney health: If you have a history of kidney disease or kidney stones, regular blood tests may be needed to monitor your calcium levels.
- Stay well hydrated: Maintain good daily hydration by drinking plenty of water, which can help lower the risk of developing constipation or kidney stones while taking this supplement.
Drug Interactions
- Antibiotics (like tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones): Calcium can bind to these medications in your digestive tract, lowering their absorption and making them less effective. Take these antibiotics at least 2 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after taking Elemental Calcium.
- Thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine): Calcium reduces the absorption of thyroid hormones. Separate taking these medications by at least 4 hours.
- Iron supplements: Taking calcium at the same time as iron can decrease the absorption of iron. It is best to space these supplements a few hours apart.
- Thiazide diuretics (water pills): These can reduce the amount of calcium your kidneys excrete, which may increase the risk of having too much calcium in your blood.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorThe interaction of alcohol with Elemental Calcium is unknown. Please consult a doctor before consuming alcohol with Elemental Calcium.
Pregnancy
safe if suggestedElemental Calcium may be safe to use for pregnant women if recommended by a doctor.
Breast Feeding
safe if suggestedElemental Calcium may be safe for breastfeeding mothers if recommended by a doctor.
Driving
consult your doctorIt is unknown if Elemental Calcium affects your ability to drive. Drive only if you are alert after taking Elemental Calcium.
Liver
cautionTake Elemental Calcium with caution, especially if you have a history of liver disease. The dose may be adjusted by your doctor as required.
Kidney
cautionTake Elemental Calcium with caution, especially if you have a history of kidney disease. The dose may be adjusted by your doctor as required. Avoid taking Elemental Calcium if you have severe kidney problems.
Children
consult your doctorElemental Calcium should be used in children only if advised by a doctor.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet: Include calcium-rich foods in your daily meals, such as milk, yoghurt, cheese, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals.
- Get enough vitamin D: Vitamin D is essential for your body to absorb calcium. Spend safe time in sunlight or eat foods rich in vitamin D, like fatty fish and egg yolks, as recommended by your doctor.
- Stay physically active: Engage in regular weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, or resistance training, to help strengthen your bones and muscles.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol: Excessive intake of caffeine and alcohol can interfere with how your body absorbs and retains calcium, so it is best to consume them in moderation.
- Avoid smoking: Tobacco use can decrease bone density and weaken your skeletal system. Quitting smoking can significantly support your long-term bone health.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Osteoporosis: It is a bone disease that weakens and makes bones brittle by decreasing bone density. As the density of bones decreases, they weaken and are more likely to break. Women are much more likely to develop osteoporosis than men. Signs and symptoms include back pain caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra, loss of height over time, a stooped posture, and a bone that breaks much more easily than expected.
Tetany: A disease condition due to low levels of calcium (hypocalcaemia) in the body, which causes cramps and spasms in the hands, feet, and larynx (voice box).
Hypoparathyroidism: It is a disease characterised by low levels of parathyroid hormone. This can cause low calcium levels and trigger tetany.
FAQs
Elemental Calcium is used to prevent or treat low blood calcium levels in people who cannot get sufficient calcium from their diets. Elemental Calcium effectively treats various conditions caused by low calcium levels in the body, such as osteoporosis (weak and brittle bones), hypoparathyroidism (low levels of parathyroid hormone), and latent tetany (a muscle disease with low blood calcium levels).
Elemental Calcium contains elemental Calcium, which works by increasing calcium levels in the blood.
Elemental Calcium should be used with extreme caution in diabetic patients as it may increase blood sugar levels. Therefore, if you have diabetes, inform your doctor before taking Elemental Calcium.
Elemental Calcium may be safe for elderly people if used in doses as advised by a doctor. However, a lower dose may be recommended by a doctor for elderly people.
Elemental Calcium is not recommended for a patient suffering from kidney stones, as it may worsen the condition. Therefore, if you have any kidney problems or have a history of kidney stones, please inform your doctor before taking Elemental Calcium.
Common side effects of Elemental Calcium include nausea, increased thirst and urination, stomach pain, and loss of appetite. These usually resolve on their own. If not, consult your doctor if they continue or get worse.
The active ingredient in Elemental Calcium is elemental calcium.
Yes, Elemental Calcium can help manage osteoporosis as it contains calcium, which is essential for bone formation and maintenance. It supports bone density, reduces fracture risk, and slows disease progression. Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
You can take Elemental Calcium at night only if your doctor advises it. It is best to follow your doctor's recommended timing of taking Elemental Calcium, which is suitable for your needs and effective. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns at the suggested times.
Yes, you can, but taking Elemental Calcium with food is generally recommended. Food helps your stomach absorb the calcium more efficiently and reduces the risk of mild stomach upset or gas. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any digestive discomfort.
Yes, constipation is a common side effect of calcium supplements. You can help prevent this by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and eating fibre-rich foods. If constipation becomes severe or persistent, talk to your doctor.
It depends on what is in your multivitamin. Many multivitamins already contain calcium or other minerals like iron and zinc that can compete for absorption. To get the best results, check the labels and talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the best schedule for your supplements.
The duration of your treatment depends entirely on why you are taking the supplement and your overall health needs. Your doctor will monitor your progress and advise you on how long to continue. Do not stop taking it early without consulting your doctor.
Calcium is highly beneficial during pregnancy to support your baby's growing bones, but you should only take Elemental Calcium under the guidance of your healthcare provider. They will recommend the safest dose for you and your baby. Talk to your doctor before starting.
Calcium can bind to certain antibiotics in your stomach, which stops your body from absorbing the medicine properly and may prevent the infection from clearing. Always separate your calcium dose from your antibiotic by several hours. Talk to your pharmacist for a safe schedule.
Mild nausea can sometimes occur, particularly if you take the tablet on an empty stomach. Trying to take Elemental Calcium with a meal can help prevent this. If the nausea is persistent, severe, or accompanied by vomiting, stop taking the supplement and talk to your doctor immediately.
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