Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body. Calcium is found in bones and teeth and is necessary for many bodily functions. According to Gicare.com, calcium carbonate is added to antacids in order to prevent heartburn and indigestion. Calcium carbonate also provides the body with calcium. Examples of antacids containing calcium include Tums, Mylanta lozenges, Rolaids and Maalox antacid caplets. Excess intake of antacids containing calcium may lead to several problems.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, common side effects of calcium-containing antacids include chalky taste, constipation, headache, loss of appetite, changes in mood, restlessness, nervousness, slow breathing, weakness, fatigue, muscle pain, muscle twitching, nausea and vomiting. Constipation caused by calcium-containing antacids may be severe, notes Drugs.com.
Kidney Problems
According to Gicare.com, calcium-containing antacids should be avoided by patients with severe kidney problems and by those on dialysis. Calcium is normally excreted by the kidneys, and patients having kidney problems may have difficulties excreting calcium, which may result in high levels of calcium in the body. Excess calcium may form crystals in the kidneys, resulting in kidney stones. Patients who experience difficult or painful urination and a frequent urge to urinate while taking calcium-containing antacids should consult a doctor.
Hypersecretion of Stomach Acid
Gicare.com states that calcium in antacids may cause a rebound effect where stomach acid surges back after the calcium-containing antacid has been absorbed. This may create further damage to the stomach and esophagus as excess acid is secreted. Patients may also be likely to take excess calcium-containing antacids in order to deal with the rebound effect, which may lead to an overdose.
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