Calcium (Jacob Paulaskas, Purdue College of Pharmacy

CALCIUM CARBONATE

Jacob Paulaskas, Student Pharmacist, Spring 2022

CALCIUM CARBONATE & IT’S HISTORY

Calcium carbonate is a common supplement, and most people know it as the brand Tums. Calcium supplements were invented in the 19th century.

WHAT IS IT USED FOR?

§ Calcium can be used for either GI issues or to supplement the natural amount of calcium we are supposed to consume from our diets.

§ GI: Sold under the common brand name Tums, calcium has FDA approved uses for relief of acid indigestion, heart burn, upset stomach and other stomach issues.

§ Supplement: This can be used in those with low calcium levels, and those with conditions such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia, hypocalcemia rickets.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

In the GI tract, calcium quickly neutralizes excess acid making it a popular supplement for upset stomach. As a supplement, the calcium is absorbed into the body and slows the decay of bone, especially in those with osteoporosis.

DOSAGE FORMS AND DOSING

§ Calcium supplements are available in tablet form. For each gram of calcium carbonate, it has 400mg of elemental calcium.

§ GI: dosing for stomach related issues is up to 8g of calcium carbonate per day for up to two weeks.

§ Supplementation: The dosage range varies from 500mg-4g of calcium carbonate per day, in 1-3 doses.

CALCIUM

EFFECTIVENESS

The effects can be suggestive. It can help those with low calcium and acid reflux, but to others it may not be beneficial. It works quickly to reduce stomach acid, but slowly to help with other issues.

SAFETY, WARNINGS, AND SIDE EFFECTS

§ May cause hypercalcemia if blood calcium levels are not monitored

§ Higher doses of calcium may cause blood clots.

§ Side effects: constipation, gas, bloating

INTERACTIONS

§ Do not take calcium with tetracycline antibiotics.

SUMMARY ARTICLE

According to an article by John Hopkins medicine, the best calcium supplement is from food and a balanced diet opposed to getting it from a supplement. Additionally, it is stated that any amount of calcium over 500mg is considered dangerous and can lead to adverse side effects such as blood clots.

The article mentions that other ways to improve bone strength is to exercise.

PROFESSIONAL OPINION

In my professional opinion, this product is only effective in patients with calcium deficiencies and acid reflux. Calcium has been proven to help reduce stomach acid and therefore it is a safe use for it. I think it is beneficial for those who are under the care of a physician and lab tests have shown hypocalcemia. It is crucial that they discuss with physicians before starting calcium or any supplement. ~J Paulaskas

REFERENCES

Calcium Carbonate. In: Specific Lexicomp Online Database [database on the Internet]. Hudson (OH): Lexicomp Inc.: publication year [updated 02 Feb. 2022; cited 25 Feb. 2022]. Available from: http://online.lexi.com. Subscription required to view.

Calcium supplement 600 mg 60 tablets each (1 or 3 pack) by rugby. Hargraves Online Healthcare. (n.d.). Retrieved February 26, 2022, from https://hargravesotc.com/products/calcium-supplement-600-mg-60-tablets-each-1-or-3-pack-by-rugby

Calcium supplements: Should you take them? Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Retrieved February 26, 2022, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/calcium-supplements-should-you-take-them