Calac

Indications

Calcium lactate is a calcium supplement. It is used to prevent and treat calcium deficiency, for example when the diet is low in calcium, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, during growth, and in older people. It is used alongside other treatment in osteoporosis (weak bones) and rickets or osteomalacia (soft bones), usually together with vitamin D.

How It Works

It supplies calcium, a mineral the body needs to build and keep strong bones and teeth, and for normal nerve signals, muscle contraction, heart rhythm and blood clotting. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium from the gut.

Dosage and Administration

Calcium lactate contains about 13% calcium, so a 300 mg tablet gives about 39 mg of calcium. The dose depends on the product and need; follow the pack or the doctor's advice. Spread doses through the day and take them with or after meals for better absorption. Total calcium from food and supplements should not usually exceed about 2,000 to 2,500 mg a day in adults unless a doctor advises. For children, use only as advised by a doctor.

Interactions

Calcium reduces the absorption of some medicines. Take it at least 2 hours apart from tetracycline antibiotics (such as Doxycycline), quinolone antibiotics (such as Ciprofloxacin), iron and zinc supplements, and Levothyroxine (keep 4 hours apart), and follow the instructions for bisphosphonates such as Alendronate. Thiazide diuretics (such as Hydrochlorothiazide) can raise blood calcium. Calcium can increase the risk of side effects of Digoxin. Large amounts of bran or spinach can reduce calcium absorption.

Contraindications

• High blood calcium (hypercalcaemia) or high calcium in the urine.
• Calcium-containing kidney stones.
• Severe kidney failure.
• Allergy to any ingredient of the product.

Side Effects

Usually mild: constipation, bloating, wind and stomach upset.

Get urgent medical help for signs of high blood calcium, such as severe thirst, passing a lot of urine, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, confusion, muscle weakness or an irregular heartbeat; for severe pain in the side or back with blood in the urine (possible kidney stone); or for signs of an allergic reaction.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Calcium needs rise during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and calcium supplements are commonly advised at recommended doses. Avoid high doses unless a doctor advises them.

Precautions and Warnings

Talk to a doctor before use if you have kidney disease, a history of kidney stones, sarcoidosis, or are taking vitamin D in high doses, as the risk of high calcium is greater. Do not take more than the recommended dose. Long-term use may need blood calcium checks. Drink enough fluids.

Overdose

Taking too much can cause high blood calcium, with nausea, vomiting, thirst, constipation, confusion and an irregular heartbeat. Stop taking it and seek medical help, especially if symptoms are severe.

Therapeutic Class

Mineral supplement (calcium salt).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.