Ca and Vitamin D

Question 1

Give some examples

Answer 1

Calcium carbonate
Calcium gluconate
Colecalciferol
Alfacalcidol

Question 2

What are the indications of use

Answer 2

• OSTEOPOROSIS
• CKD to Tx + prevent 2o hyperparathyroidism + renal osteodystrophy
• Severe hyperkalaemia
• Hypocalcaemia that is symptomatic
• Prevent + Tx Vit D deficiency (inc rickets + osteomalacia)

Question 3

What is the mechanism of action

Answer 3

• Essential for normal function of muscle, bones, clotting
• Ca homeostasis controlled by PTH + Vit D –> increase serum Ca + bone mineralisation + calcitonin
• Reduce rate of bone loss

Question 4

What are the side effects

Answer 4

• Dyspepsia
• Constipation
• IV can cause CV collapse if administered too quickly
• Local tissue damage

Question 5

What are the conta-indications

Answer 5

Hypercalcaemia

Question 6

What are the interactions

Answer 6

Iron 
Bisphosphonates
Tetracyclines 
Levothyroxine (reduces absorption) 
Sodium bicarbonate (risk of precipitation)