C CALCY 500TAB

• Calcium is the principal mineral of bone, and adequate intake is fundamental to maintaining bone density.
• Vitamin D3 is required for calcium absorption from the gut — calcium given without it is poorly absorbed.
• Standard adjunct alongside bisphosphonates and other osteoporosis treatments, which do not work well in a calcium-deficient patient.
• Vitamin D also supports muscle strength, and correcting deficiency reduces falls in the elderly.
• Useful during pregnancy and lactation, when calcium demand rises substantially.

Not everyone gets these. Most are mild and settle as the course finishes.

• Contraindicated in hypercalcaemia, hypercalciuria, and in a history of calcium-containing kidney stones.
• Use with caution in renal impairment and in sarcoidosis, where vitamin D sensitivity is increased.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose, and do not take alongside another calcium or vitamin D preparation — the doses add up.
• Calcium impairs absorption of tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics, thyroid hormone, iron and bisphosphonates. Separate doses by at least two to four hours.
• Increase fluid and dietary fibre to offset constipation, which is the commonest reason patients stop.
• Prolonged high-dose use warrants periodic checks of serum calcium and renal function.
• Use with caution alongside thiazide diuretics and digoxin, where the risk from raised calcium is greater.