Indications
Calcium propionate is used in veterinary medicine, mainly for cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats. It is given as an oral energy and calcium supplement around calving and early milk production to help prevent and support treatment of low blood calcium (milk fever) and ketosis (a condition caused by a shortage of energy). It is often combined with other nutrients in powders or suspensions for livestock. It is also widely used as a food and feed preservative. This product is for animal use only, not for human use.
How It Works
Calcium propionate supplies two useful parts. The calcium helps restore blood calcium needed for muscle and nerve function, including the muscles of the uterus and rumen. The propionate is absorbed and turned into glucose by the liver, giving the animal energy and reducing the build-up of ketones. As a preservative, propionate slows the growth of moulds and some bacteria in feed.
Dosage and Administration
Give by mouth exactly as directed on the product label or by a veterinarian. The amount depends on the species, body weight, stage of lactation and the product strength. Products are often given before and after calving or mixed into water or feed. Do not use as a replacement for injectable calcium in a cow that is down and cannot rise; call a veterinarian urgently.
Interactions
Giving several calcium or mineral products at the same time can cause excess intake; check all supplements the animal is receiving with a veterinarian. Calcium can reduce the absorption of some oral medicines such as Tetracyclines if given at the same time.
Contraindications
- Animals with high blood calcium.
- Known sensitivity to any ingredient of the product.
- Not for human use.
Side Effects
When used as directed, side effects are uncommon. Large oral doses may cause mild digestive upset or reduced appetite. Giving liquids by drench too fast may cause choking or fluid entering the lungs.
Get urgent veterinary help if the animal is down and unable to stand, has cold ears, a weak or irregular heartbeat, trembling, bloating, coughing or breathing difficulty after drenching, or does not improve after treatment.
Pregnancy and Lactation
It is designed for use in pregnant animals close to calving and in lactating animals, following the label or veterinary advice. People should not take veterinary products; pregnant or breastfeeding people who handle them should wash their hands after use.
Precautions and Warnings
- For veterinary use only; keep away from human food and medicines.
- Drench slowly with the head held level to avoid inhalation.
- Follow the withdrawal period for milk and meat stated on the label of the combined product before using them for human food.
- Wear gloves and wash hands after handling.
Overdose
Overdose in animals may cause digestive upset and, rarely, high blood calcium with heart rhythm changes. Contact a veterinarian. If a person swallows a large amount, rinse the mouth and seek medical advice.
Therapeutic Class
Veterinary mineral and energy supplement (calcium and glucose precursor); preservative.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.