oyster shell calcium with d
Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 is a dietary supplement used for people who have bone problems or low calcium and vitamin D levels. There are many manufacturers who make this product. It's available over the counter and as a lower-cost, generic form.
What is Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3?
What is Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 used for?
Bone problems (e.g., osteoporosis, weak bones)
Low blood levels of calcium and vitamin D
How Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 works
Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 is a combination of two products:
Calcium carbonate is important to help build and maintain strong bones in your body.
Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) helps your body absorb the calcium.
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What are the side effects of Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3?
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects
- High calcium or vitamin D levels: loss of appetite, nausea, weakness, weight loss, muscle aches or stiffness, constipation
- Kidney damage: a change in how much or how often you urinate, feeling tired, swelling in your legs or feet
Source: DailyMed
The following side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- High calcium level—increased thirst or amount of urine, nausea, vomiting, confusion, unusual weakness or fatigue, bone pain
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
Pros and cons of Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3
Pros
Available over the counter
Available as a lower-cost, generic form
Cons
Needs to be taken twice per day
More difficult to customize the dose since it's a fixed combination of two products
Pharmacist tips for Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3
Don't take calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 with other calcium and vitamin D supplements without talking to your provider first. Doing so can put you at risk for side effects such as constipation and kidney stones.
Make sure to have a healthy diet with calcium and vitamin D-rich foods. Some examples include milk, cheese, and fortified cereals.
Tell your provider or pharmacist about all the medications and supplements you're taking before starting calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 to make sure there are no interactions.
Frequently asked questions about Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3
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What are the risks and warnings for Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3?
Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
High calcium or vitamin D levels
Risk factors: High doses of calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 | Taking calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 with other medications containing calcium or vitamin D
Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 shouldn't be used if you have high levels of calcium or vitamin D in your blood. If you take more calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 than the recommended or prescribed dose, it can cause calcium to build up in your blood, which can be dangerous for your kidneys. Make sure to get all blood tests your provider orders for you so they can measure your calcium or vitamin D levels. This is to make sure your levels aren't too high and you're taking the correct dose. If you notice unexplained nausea that doesn't go away, a loss of appetite, weight loss, constipation, muscle pain, muscle stiffness, or a change in how much or how often you urinate, talk to your provider.
Interactions with other medications
Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 can interact with many other commonly used medications, including over-the-counter and prescription medications. Tell your provider about all the medications you take, especially if you take a bisphosphonate, quinolone antibiotic, tetracycline, or iron supplement. You'll have to space out when you take these medications and calcium carbonate/vitamin D3. Don't start any new medications without talking to your provider or pharmacist first to make sure the combination is safe to take together.
Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3 dosage forms
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500mg | 60 tablets | $3.83 | $0.06 |
Typical dosing for Calcium carbonate/vitamin D3
There are several manufacturers of this product. The dose might differ slightly depending on which manufacturer you're using. Be sure to check the product box for specific instructions.
The typical dose is 1 tablet by mouth twice per day with food. Your provider will adjust your dose based on the reason you are taking calcium carbonate/vitamin D3.
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