Vitamins & Minerals: What is the most important information I should know ... - Newsolio

What is calcium carbonate?
• Calcium is a mineral that is found naturally in foods. Calcium is necessary for many normal functions of your body, especially bone formation and maintenance. Calcium can also bind to other minerals (such as phosphate) and aid in their removal from the body.
• Calcium carbonate is used to prevent and to treat calcium deficiencies.
• Calcium carbonate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not take calcium carbonate?
• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you

What is calcium carbonate?

· have had kidney stones;
· have parathyroid gland disease;
· take antacids or other calcium supplements; or
· take a tetracycline antibiotic such as tetracycline, demeclocycline, doxycycline, minocycline, or oxytetracycline.
• You may not be able to take calcium carbonate, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions, or take any of the medications, listed above.
• Talk to your doctor before taking calcium carbonate if you are pregnant. In general, calcium is important for the development of an unborn baby.
• Talk to your doctor before taking calcium carbonate if you are breast-feeding. Calcium is also important for the development of a breast-feeding baby.

How should I take calcium carbonate?
• Take calcium carbonate exactly as directed by your doctor or follow the directions on the package. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Swallow the calcium carbonate tablets and capsules with a full glass of water.
• Chew the chewable forms of calcium carbonate completely before swallowing.
• Use the calcium carbonate powder as directed. Allow the powder to dissolve completely, then consume the mixture.
• Shake the calcium carbonate suspension well before measuring a dose. To ensure that you get the correct dose, use a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon to measure the liquid. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
• Take calcium with meals to increase its absorption into your body, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
• Store cal cium carbonate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medicine unless your doctor directs otherwise.

What happens if I overdose?
• Seek emergency medical attention.
• Symptoms of a calcium overdose include nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, constipation, confusion, delirium, stupor, and coma.

What should I avoid while taking calcium carbonate?
• If you take other medicines, do not take calcium carbonate without first talking to your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of calcium carbonate?
• Stop taking calcium carbonate and seek emergency medical attention if you experience a rare allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take calcium carbonate and notify your doctor if you experience
· nausea or vomiting;
· decreased appetite;
· constipation;
· dry mouth or increased thirst; or
· increased urination.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect calcium carbonate?
• Before taking calcium carbonate, tell your doctor if you are taking
· digoxin;
· antacids containing calcium or aluminum;
· other calcium supplements;
· calcitriol or vitamin D supplements; or
· a tetracycline antibiotic such as tetracycline , demeclocycline, doxycycline, minocycline, or oxytetracycline .
• You may not be able to take calcium carbonate, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with calcium carbonate. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Where can I get more information?
• Your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider may have more information about calcium carbonate.

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