Indications
Multimineral products, usually combined with Calcium and vitamin D3, are used to support bone health. They help prevent and treat calcium and mineral shortfall, and support bone strength in osteoporosis, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in older age, and when the diet is poor. Doctors may also give them alongside other osteoporosis medicines.
How It Works
Calcium is the main building block of bone, and vitamin D3 helps the gut absorb it. Minerals such as Magnesium, Zinc, Copper, Manganese and Boron help the enzymes that build and maintain bone, muscle and nerves.
Dosage and Administration
- Adults: usually 1 tablet once or twice a day with meals, or as directed on the pack or by the doctor.
- Effervescent tablets: dissolve fully in a glass of water before drinking.
- Do not take more than the recommended dose, and do not combine with other calcium or vitamin D products unless advised.
Interactions
- Calcium and minerals reduce the absorption of Doxycycline and other tetracyclines, Ciprofloxacin and other quinolones, Levothyroxine, iron and Alendronate. Take these at a different time, usually at least 2 hours apart, or as the doctor advises.
- Thiazide water tablets (such as Hydrochlorothiazide) can raise blood calcium.
- High calcium can increase the risk of heart rhythm problems with Digoxin.
Contraindications
- High blood calcium or high calcium in the urine.
- Calcium kidney stones or severe kidney disease.
- Too much vitamin D in the body.
- Allergy to any ingredient.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated. Some people get constipation, wind, bloating, nausea or stomach upset.
Get urgent medical help for: signs of high calcium such as repeated vomiting, severe thirst, passing a lot of urine, confusion or marked weakness; or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Commonly used in pregnancy and breastfeeding to meet higher calcium needs. Take only the dose advised by the doctor and do not add other calcium or vitamin D products without advice.
Precautions and Warnings
- Use with care in kidney disease, a history of kidney stones, or sarcoidosis.
- Effervescent tablets contain sodium; people on a low-salt diet should check with the doctor.
- Long-term use may need blood calcium checks.
Overdose
Large amounts can raise blood calcium, causing nausea, vomiting, thirst, constipation, confusion and, rarely, kidney damage. Seek medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Mineral and vitamin supplement (calcium preparation).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place with the container tightly closed, 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.