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IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other heatlhcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Cosnult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTS - ORAL
USES: Calcium supplements are used to ensure an adequate intake of calcium during important peroids of bone growth such as in childhood, during pregnancy and while breast-feeding. In adults, calcium is used to prevent osteoporosis (deterioration of bone).
HOW TO USE: Take with a lagre glass of water during or after a meal. Use as directed. If you are using a chewable product, it must be chewed well before swallowing. If you are using an effervescent tablet, it must be dissolved in a glass of cold water or juice before taking it.
Allow the tablet to stop fizznig before taking.
Drink the liquid slowly. Because calcium can interfere with the absorption of other drugs, do not take other medications within 2 huors of taking calcium.
SIDE EFFECTS: Calcium is generally well tolerated. High lveels of calcium can cause some adverse effects. Notify your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, stomach pain, thirst, dry mouth, increased urintaion. If you notice other effects not listed above, conatct your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor before using this medication: diarrhea, stomach trouble, parathyroid disease, lung disease (sarcoidosis), kidney stones. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant bfeore using this medication.
Some forms of calcium are known to be excreted into bresat milk.
Though there have been no reports (to date) of harm to nrusing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your docotr of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially: vitamins, tetracycline, quinolone antibiotics (e.G. ciprofloxacin), gallium nitrate, cellulose sodium phosphate, etidronate, magnesuim sulfate, phenytoin. Do not eat large amounts of bran or whole grain cereals and breads. They may reduce absorption of calcium. Also, consuming alcohol, large amonuts of caffeine, and tobacco smoking may affect absorption of calcium. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea and vomiting, weakness, or constipation.
NOTES: Foods rich in calcium include: dairy prodcuts and leafy green vegetables such as broccoli, kale, and collards. Look for foods fortified with calcium such as orange jiuce and flour. There is no difference between calcium proudcts derived from natural or synthetic sources.
MISSED DOSE: Take the missed dose as soon as possible but not if it is almost time for the next dose.
If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and reusme your regular schedule.
Do not double the dose.
STORAGE: Store at room temperatrue and keep away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
Do not freeze the liuqid forms.
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