Indications
Coral calcium is a calcium supplement. It is used to prevent and treat calcium deficiency, to support bone health in osteoporosis (thin, weak bones) along with other treatment, and to meet the higher calcium needs of pregnancy, breastfeeding, growing children and older adults. It is usually combined with vitamin D3, and sometimes with other minerals, to help the body absorb and use calcium.
How It Works
Coral calcium comes from fossilised coral and is mainly calcium carbonate, with small amounts of magnesium and trace minerals. It supplies calcium, which the body needs for strong bones and teeth and for normal muscle, nerve and heart function. Vitamin D3, when included, helps the gut absorb the calcium.
Dosage and Administration
Follow the dose on the product label or as the doctor advises; usually 1 tablet once or twice a day. Total calcium from supplements for adults is generally 500 to 1000 mg a day, taken in doses of no more than about 500 mg at a time. Take with or just after a meal for better absorption. Chewable tablets should be chewed well. Children: only as advised by a doctor.
Interactions
Calcium can reduce the absorption of Doxycycline and other tetracyclines, Ciprofloxacin and other quinolone antibiotics, Levothyroxine, iron, zinc and bisphosphonates such as Alendronate. Take these at least 2 to 4 hours apart from calcium. Thiazide diuretics such as Hydrochlorothiazide can raise blood calcium. High calcium levels increase the risk of side effects from Digoxin.
Contraindications
- High blood calcium or high urine calcium.
- Current calcium kidney stones.
- Severe kidney disease.
- Allergy to any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated. Constipation, bloating and wind are the most common.
Get urgent medical help if you have:
- Signs of high calcium: severe thirst, passing a lot of urine, nausea, vomiting, confusion or muscle weakness.
- Severe pain in the side or back, or blood in the urine (possible kidney stone).
- Swelling of the face, lips or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Calcium supplements are commonly used in pregnancy and breastfeeding at the recommended dose. Do not exceed the dose advised by your doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
Tell your doctor if you have had kidney stones, have kidney disease or sarcoidosis. Do not take other calcium or vitamin D products at the same time unless advised, to avoid getting too much. Getting calcium from food (milk, small fish eaten with bones, leafy greens) is also important.
Overdose
Taking too much over time can raise blood calcium, causing thirst, nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion and kidney problems. Stop taking it and seek medical advice.
Therapeutic Class
Mineral supplement (calcium), often with vitamin D.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.