Citracal Plus D is a combination of calcium and vitamin D used to make sure a person has adequate amounts of both. The combination adds to bone strength and resistance to osteoporosis, according to a 2007 report by the U.S. National Library of Medicine. That report states 90 percent of women may not be getting enough calcium and more than 50 percent of women treated for bone loss have inadequate vitamin D levels. However, taking Citracal Plus D has a few possible side effects.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Citracal Plus D may cause a number of gastrointestinal problems. Decreased appetite, nausea and vomiting are listed by Drugs.com as some of the problems associated with taking this supplement. Users may also suffer constipation from taking it as well as stomach gas and bloating. Taking the supplement has also caused dry mouth and a metallic taste in patients. Gradually increasing the dosage of Citracal Plus D may circumvent these stomach problems.
Weakness, Headache
Citracal Plus D may cause weakness and headaches as side effects. Drugs.com states that it may also cause an irregular heartbeat and drowsiness. Pain in muscles and bones are also complaints sometimes caused by the supplement, but these side effects will unlikely become, serious.
Kidney Stones
Patients will more likely to form kidney stones when taking Citracal Plus D. The Women's Health Initiative or WHI study conducted in 2006, showed a 17 percent increase in kidney stone formation by those taking the supplement, although other studies have shown no increase or decrease in kidney stones. Men with a history of kidney stones were 50 percent less likely to have recurrent kidney stones in one study, while women given more than 1000 mg/day of the supplement over a period of 12 years showed less likelihood of developing kidney stones than those who took less than 500 mg/day.
Allergic Reaction
Some people who take Citracal Plus D may have an allergic reaction that can become serious. Drugs.com warns that signs of an allergic reaction include facial swelling, trouble breathing and hives. If any of these signs occur users should immediately seek medical care.
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