Calcium is a mineral needed for muscle and blood vessel contraction, hormone secretion and nervous system transmission, according to the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements. Most people receive an adequate supply of calcium from their foods, but some may require supplements. Calcium supplements are found in pill, chewable tablet and liquid forms. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated the safety or effectiveness of calcium supplements. Side effects are rare, but it is important to consult a medical professional before taking any supplements.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Some people may experience gastrointestinal problems while taking calcium pills. When calcium pills are taken on an empty stomach or when the dosage is too high it can cause an upset stomach, constipation, nausea, vomiting and/or gas, according to the website of Minnesota's Allina Hospitals and Clinics. Taking the calcium pills with food, lowering the dosage or switching to a gentler form of calcium such calcium citrate may help ease any digestive side effects. These side effects usually subside with continued use, but if the symptoms do not improve over time, the calcium pills should be discontinued and a medical professional should be contacted.
Belching
A common side effect associated with calcium pills is belching, according to the website of The Ohio State University Medical Center. Belching can occur as air passes from the digestive tract through the mouth. It is the body's way of expelling excess air from the stomach. Switching to a lower dose of calcium may help alleviate this side effect. The belching side effect should improve with continued use, but if it continues, the calcium pills should be discontinued and a medical professional should be contacted.
Dry Mouth
Some people may experience a dry mouth while taking calcium pills. High doses of calcium can reduce the amount of saliva in the body, resulting in a dry mouth. Some people report extreme thirst while supplementing with calcium pills. Chronic dry mouth can result in difficulty swallowing, digestive problems and/or reduced taste. Dry mouth usually improves with a lower dose of calcium and increased fluid intake, but if it does not improve over time, then calcium supplementation should be discontinued and a medical professional should be contacted.
Loss of Appetite
Calcium pills that contain large amounts of calcium can cause a lack of appetite, according to the NIH. Some people may experience stomach pain, nausea and /or vomiting when taking calcium pills, leading to a decrease in appetite. Switching to a lower dose of calcium or discontinuing the calcium pills may eliminate this side effect, but if a normal appetite does not return and weight loss occurs, contact a medical professional.
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