Calcium and Vitamin D

Question 1

What are the generic and brand names for calcium and vit D?

Answer 1

• Calcium carbonate (Adcal)
• Calcium gluconate
• Colecalciferol (Fultium)
• Alfacalcidol (One-Alpha)

Question 2

What is the method of action of calcium and Vit D?

Answer 2

• Calcium is essential for normal function of muscle, nerves, bone and clotting
• Levels of Ca are controlled by the parathyroid hormone and vitamin D = ↑ Ca levels and bone mineralisation
• Calcitonin = ↓ Ca levels

Question 3

What are the indications for calcium and Vit D?

Answer 3

• Osteoporosis when dietary intake/sunlight exposure are insufficient
• Chronic kidney disease – prevent secondary hyperparathyroidism and renal osteodystrophy
• Severe hyperkalaemia to prevent life threatening arrhythmias – calcium gluconate is used
• Hypocalcaemia that is symptomatic
• Vit D deficiency inc. rickets (children) and osteomalacia (adults)

Question 4

What are the contraindications for calcium and Vit D?

Answer 4

• Hypercalcaemia

Question 5

What are the side effects of calcium and vit D?

Answer 5

• Dyspepsia
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Limb pain
• Cardiovascular damage – when given IV too fast
• Local tissue damage – if given IV accidentally into SC tissue

Question 6

What are the drug interactions with calcium and Vit D?

Answer 6

• Iron – Ca ↓ drugs absorption
• Bisphosphonates – Ca ↓ drugs absorption
• Tetracyclines – Ca ↓ drugs absorption
• Levothyroxine – Ca ↓ drugs absorption
• Sodium bicarbonate – when administered IV due to risk of precipitation
• Spinach, bananas and whole cereals – keep 2 hours between these foods and medication

Question 7

What organ eliminates calcium and Vit D?

Answer 7

Intestines

Question 8

What information should be given to a patient taking calcium and Vit D?

Answer 8

Chew then swollow