What is this medicine?
CALCIUM SALTS (KAL see um sawlts) are a calcium supplement. It is used to prevent and to treat low calcium levels.
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What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
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They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-constipation
-dehydration
-heart rhythm problems
-high blood calcium, phosphate, or vitamin D levels
-kidney disease or stones
-parathyroid disease
-stomach bleeding, obstruction or ulcer
-an unusual or allergic reaction to calcium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
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Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the package or prescription label. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure each dose. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. Take with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
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If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
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-digoxin
-other calcium products
-phenytoin
-some antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, gatifloxacin, tetracycline
-strontium 89 chloride
-sucralfate
-thyroid hormones
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
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Follow a healthy diet. Taking a vitamin supplement does not replace the need for a balanced diet. Some foods that have calcium naturally are milk, cheese, yogurt, sardines, salmon, shrimp, and tofu (bean curd).
Do not take calcium within 2 hours of any other medication taken by mouth.
Do not use bonemeal or dolomite as a source of calcium, they can contain dangerous levels of lead.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
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Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-confusion or irritability
-headache
-loss of appetite
-nausea, vomiting
-unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
-constipation
-stomach gas, upset
Where should I keep my medicine?
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Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Information on use before, during and after pregnancy.
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Lactation
Compatible - This drug is generally safe to take by nursing mothers.
