Calcium salts

About Calcium Salts

This belongs to the group of medicines known as calcium supplements.

Calcium is a naturally occurring mineral, it is taken as a supplement when there is not enough calcium in the diet, as a phosphate binding agent in the management of renal failure and for conditions like osteoporosis.

Calcium Salts are available in tablet, chewable tablet, dispersible tablet, syrup and injection form.

Preparations available are Adcal; Cacit; Calcichew; Calcium-500; Calcium-Sandoz; Sandocal. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Calcium Salts

Before taking calcium salts make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from hypercalcaemia or hypercalciuria (if you suffer from too much calcium in your blood or urine)
• if you suffer from kidney problems or sarcoidosis (a condition which causes enlargement of the lymph nodes)
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Calcium Salts

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Read the label carefully to check whether you need to mix the tablets with water before taking. If unsure ask your pharmacist.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of calcium salts contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside calcium salts.
• If you have been prescribed calcium salts for the management of kidney disease you must keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be monitored.

Can Calcium Salts cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. Speak to your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome:

Tummy upset.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Calcium Salts

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 14/02/2005