Description
Composition
Active Ingredient
- Calcium Carbonate: Each tablet contains 2500 mg of calcium carbonate, providing 1000 mg of elemental calcium.
Inactive Ingredients
- Citric acid anhydrous
- Sodium hydrogen carbonate
- Malic acid
- Sodium cyclamate
- Lactose monohydrate (derived from cow’s milk)
- Sodium saccharin
- Povidone
- Macrogol
- Lemon flavor
Uses and Indications
Key Indications
- Prevention and Treatment of Calcium Deficiency: Efercal is used to address calcium deficiencies in individuals who have inadequate calcium intake or require additional calcium due to specific health conditions.
- Bone Health: It helps in the treatment of bone-related conditions such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia, and bone demineralization.
- Pregnancy and Lactation: Efercal supports the increased calcium requirements during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Childhood Growth: Efercal aids in the growth and development of children, ensuring adequate calcium for bone formation.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium carbonate, the active ingredient in Efercal, works by neutralizing stomach acid and providing an essential source of calcium. Calcium is crucial for various bodily processes, including bone formation, muscle function, nerve signaling, and maintaining heart health. Efercal supports the body’s need for calcium, particularly when dietary intake is insufficient.
Dosage and Administration
Recommended Dosage
- Adults and Children: One effervescent tablet, dissolved in water, taken once daily or as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Method of Administration
Dissolve the effervescent tablet in a glass of water and consume immediately. This ensures maximum absorption and reduces the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort.
Precautions and Warnings
Contraindications
Efercal should not be used by individuals with:
- Hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients
- Hypercalcemia (elevated calcium levels in the blood)
- Severe hypercalciuria (excessive calcium in the urine)
- Nephrocalcinosis (calcium deposits in the kidneys)
- Kidney stones
Special Precautions
- Dietary Considerations: Avoid consuming foods high in oxalates (such as spinach and rhubarb) or phytates (such as bran) close to the time of taking Efercal, as these can interfere with calcium absorption.
- Monitoring: Prolonged use of Efercal requires regular monitoring of calcium levels in the blood and urine to prevent complications like hypercalcemia.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbances such as constipation and bloating.
- Hypercalcemia, which may result from excessive calcium intake.
Rare Side Effects
- Allergic reactions, including rash and itching.
- Kidney stones, particularly in individuals with a history of kidney conditions.
Storage
Efercal should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Ensure that it is kept out of reach of children.
Duration of Use
The duration for which Efercal can be safely taken depends on individual health conditions and the recommendations of a healthcare provider. Prolonged use is generally safe, provided that calcium levels are regularly monitored. It is important to follow a healthcare provider’s advice regarding the duration and dosage of Efercal to avoid potential risks such as hypercalcemia or kidney stones.
Drug Interactions
Potential Interactions
- Thiazide Diuretics: May increase the risk of hypercalcemia when used with calcium supplements like Efercal.
- Tetracyclines and Quinolones: Calcium may interfere with the absorption of these antibiotics, reducing their efficacy.
- Bisphosphonates: Used for osteoporosis, these drugs may have reduced absorption when taken with calcium.
- Levothyroxine: Calcium may interfere with the absorption of this thyroid medication.
Food Interactions
- Oxalate- and Phytate-rich Foods: Foods like spinach, rhubarb, and bran can interfere with calcium absorption, so they should be avoided near the time of taking Efercal.
Precautions for Safe Use
General Precautions
- Consult Healthcare Provider: Before starting Efercal, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.
- Dietary Considerations: Maintain a diet that supports calcium absorption and avoid foods that may interfere with its effectiveness.
- Regular Monitoring: If Efercal is taken for an extended period, regular monitoring of calcium levels in the blood and urine is recommended to avoid complications such as hypercalcemia.
Specific Considerations
- Hypersensitivity: Individuals with known allergies to any of the ingredients should avoid using Efercal.
- Kidney Conditions: Efercal should not be used by individuals with kidney stones or nephrocalcinosis, as it may exacerbate these conditions.
- Pregnancy and Lactation: Efercal can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding under medical supervision to support the increased calcium needs of both mother and child.
Administration and Dietary Recommendations
Efercal can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may enhance calcium absorption and reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort. Whether taken with food or on an empty stomach, avoid consuming foods high in oxalates or phytates near the time of taking the supplement, as these can hinder calcium absorption.
Benefits of Efercal Effervescent Tablet 1000 mg
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Calcium Deficiency Prevention | Helps prevent and treat calcium deficiency, ensuring sufficient calcium levels in the body. |
| Bone Health Support | Strengthens bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions. |
| Pregnancy & Lactation Support | Meets the increased calcium demands during pregnancy and breastfeeding. |
| Supports Growth in Children | Aids in the growth and development of children, ensuring proper bone formation. |
| Enhanced Absorption | Effervescent tablets dissolve fully in water, improving calcium absorption and bioavailability. |
| Gentle on Stomach | Effervescent form is less likely to cause stomach discomfort compared to traditional tablets. |
| Pleasant Taste | Added flavor makes the supplement easier to consume, especially for those who dislike tablets. |
Potential Risks of Efercal Effervescent Tablet 1000 mg
| Risk | Description |
|---|---|
| Hypercalcemia | Excess calcium can lead to nausea, vomiting, constipation, and confusion. |
| Gastrointestinal Issues | Common side effects include bloating and constipation. |
| Kidney Stones | High calcium intake may increase the risk of kidney stone formation. |
| Allergic Reactions | Rarely, individuals may experience allergic reactions such as rash or itching. |
| Drug Interactions | Efercal may interact with medications like antibiotics and thyroid treatments. |
| Hypercalciuria | Excess calcium may result in high urinary calcium levels, increasing stone risk. |
| Nephrocalcinosis | Long-term excessive calcium intake can lead to calcium deposits in the kidneys. |
Suitability Across Age Groups
Efercal is suitable for various age groups, though the dosage may vary:
- Adults and Children of School Age: Typically one effervescent tablet daily.
- Children (3-7 Years): Generally, half a tablet daily, as prescribed by a physician.
- Infants: Use only under medical supervision.
- Elderly: No specific dosage recommendations, but it is generally safe for older adults with monitoring.
Conclusion
Efercal Effervescent Tablet 1000 mg is a versatile calcium supplement that helps prevent and treat calcium deficiencies. With proper use and precautions, it can support bone health, pregnancy, lactation, and growth in children. Regular monitoring and adherence to dosage instructions are essential to ensure safe and effective use. Always consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement to ensure it aligns with your health needs.
Elizab –
How much sugar content is included in this tab
Medical Guidance Center –
Hello Elizab, this is Wikikenko.
Thank you for your question about the sugar content in Efercal Effervesant Tablets 1000mg. While the tablets do not contain traditional sugars like sucrose, they do utilize artificial sweeteners like sodium saccharin and sodium cyclamate to improve palatability without adding calories. To know the exact nutritional breakdown is best discussed with a medical professional as dietary needs can vary between individuals. If you have diabetes, dietary restrictions or other health factors to consider, I recommend speaking with your doctor about whether this medication is suitable for your requirements. They can help determine if any non-nutritive sweeteners may affect your treatment plan. Please feel free to ask if you need any other product or health-related details.