CALCIUM CITRATE,VITAMIN D3

Background and Date of Approval

Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 comes under therapeutic class of bone and mineral metabolism regulators and vitamins and minerals.

Uses

Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 is used to treat and prevent calcium and vitamin D deficiency and to maintain healthy bones and teeth in adults, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and children over 12 years old.

How is it administered?

Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 is administered orally and taken by mouth. Taking Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 with food or water is important to reduce the risk of stomach upset. The healthcare provider will determine the dosage and duration of treatment based on the specific infection and individual factors.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 are mild and go away independently, such as constipation, gas, nausea, and vomiting. Less common side effects include loss of appetite, muscle weakness, fatigue, confusion, increased thirst, urination, and bone pain. Allergic reactions are also possible. Serious side effects, such as hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood) and hypervitaminosis D (too much vitamin D in the body)

Warnings

Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 can increase the risk of kidney stones in people with kidney disease. It can increase the risk of hypercalcemia in people who already have heart disease. It can cause allergic reactions in some people.

Precautions

If you have kidney or heart disease, talk to your doctor before taking Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3. If you have a history of allergies, talk to your doctor before taking this medication.

Word of Advice

Do not take Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 in quantities exceeding your doctor's prescription. Excessive calcium or vitamin D intake may cause serious adverse effects, including hypercalcemia and hypervitaminosis D. Inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. If you have existing medical conditions such as kidney disease, heart disease, or hyperparathyroidism, consult your doctor prior to taking this medication, as it may not be appropriate for certain conditions. Patients with a history of kidney stones should discuss this medication with their doctor before use. If you are taking other medications, discuss with your doctor whether concurrent use is safe. Report any side effects to your doctor. If you are lactose intolerant, speak with your doctor before taking this medication, as it may contain lactose.

References

La Renon Healthcare Pvt Ltd., [Revised on 2019] [Accessed on 9th Nov 2023], https://www.larenon.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Cireta-Website.pdf I.D. Penman, C.W. Lees, Alimentary tract and pancreatic disease, Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine, 22nd Edition, 2014, 837-920. Jalili M, Vahedi H, Poustchi H, Hekmatdoost A., Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial, Int J Prev Med., 2019, 10(16), https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6390425/

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the side effects of Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3?

The most common side effects of Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 are constipation, gas, nausea, and vomiting. Serious side effects are rare but can include hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood), hypervitaminosis D (too much vitamin D in the body), kidney stones, and allergic reactions.

How long should I take Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3?

The time you need to take Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 will depend on your needs. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment for you.

What should I do if I miss a Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 dose?

If you miss a dose of Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Take only a partial dose to make up for a missed dose.

Is Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 available over-the-counter?

Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 is available over-the-counter in some countries. Still, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking it, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking any other medications.

What are the risks of taking too much Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3?

Taking too much Calcium citrate + Vitamin D3 can lead to serious side effects, such as hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood) and hypervitaminosis D (too much vitamin D in the body). Symptoms of hypercalcemia and hypervitaminosis D can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, muscle weakness, fatigue, and confusion.

Written By: Muskan Patel, M.Pharm

Reviewed By: Dr. Vishwa Patel, MBBS