Generic Name: calcium carbonate (KAL see um CAR boe nate)Brand Names: Alka-Mints, Cal-Gest, Calcarb, Calci Mix, Calci-Chew, Calcium Concentrate, Calcium Liquid Softgel, Calcium Oyster Shell, Caltrate, Chooz, Extra Strength Mylanta Calci Tabs, Icar Prenatal Chewable Calcium, Maalox Antacid Barrier, Maalox Childrens', Maalox Quick Dissolve, Maalox Quick Dissolve Maximum Strength, Maalox Regular Strength, Mylanta Child, Nephro Calci, Os-Cal 500, Oysco 500, Oyst Cal 500, Oyster Cal, Oyster Calcium, Oyster Shell, Pepto Children's, Rolaids Sodium Free, Rolaids Soft Chew, Tums, Tums 500, Tums E-X, Tums Ultra
Calcium is a mineral that is found naturally in foods. Calcium is necessary for many normal functions of the 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 other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about Nephro Calci (calcium carbonate)?Do not take calcium carbonate or antacids containing calcium without first talking to your doctor if you take other medications. Calcium can decrease the effects of many other medicines by binding to them or by changing the acidity of the stomach or the urine. Take calcium with meals to increase its absorption by the body, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Nephro Calci (calcium carbonate)?Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have:
a history of kidney stones; or
a parathyroid gland disorder.
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to take calcium carbonate, or you may need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.
Talk to your doctor before taking calcium carbonate if you are pregnant. Talk to your doctor before taking calcium carbonate if you are breast-feeding.Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Swallow the calcium carbonate tablet or capsule with a full glass of water.Chew the chewable tablet completely before swallowing.
Use the calcium carbonate powder as directed. Allow the powder to dissolve completely, then consume the mixture.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Take calcium with meals to increase its absorption by the body, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Store calcium carbonate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, constipation, confusion, delirium, stupor, and coma.
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while you are using calcium carbonate.
Less serious side effects may include:
nausea or vomiting;
decreased appetite;
constipation;
dry mouth or increased thirst; or
urinating more than usual.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Calcium carbonate may interact with or make it harder for your body to absorb certain drugs. Tell your doctor about all other medications you take, especially:
digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps);
antacids or other calcium supplements;
calcitriol (Rocaltrol) or vitamin D supplements; or
a tetracycline antibiotic such as tetracycline (Sumycin, Achromycin V, and others), demeclocycline (Declomycin), doxycycline (Vibramycin, Monodox, Doxy, and others), minocycline (Minocin, Dynacin, and others), or oxytetracycline (Terramycin, and others).
This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with calcium carbonate. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.