Calcium gluconate is used to treat and prevent calcium deficiencies, as well as conditions caused by low calcium levels, such as osteoporosis, rickets, hypoparathyroidism and latent tetany. Calcium gluconate can be given orally, intramuscularly or intravenously, depending on your medical condition. Your nerves, cells, muscles and bones all need calcium to function properly. If your blood calcium level is low, your body will begin taking calcium from your bones, causing bone loss and weakness. Although oral calcium gluconate is available without a prescription, there are several side effects associated with this drug. Consult your doctor before taking calcium gluconate to make sure it is the right form of calcium supplementation for you.
Abdominal Upset
Calcium gluconate can sometimes cause abdominal upset. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, constipation and decreased appetite. Report any persistent or severe abdominal upset symptoms to your physician, who will evaluate your condition and decide if you should continue taking this drug. If you experience constipation while taking this medication, increased exercise, fluids, fiber or fruit may help.
High Calcium Level
Taking calcium gluconate may cause some users to develop a high level of calcium in their bodies. Side effects include dry mouth, a metallic taste in the mouth, increased thirst, persistent headache, constipation, depression and fatigue. According to HealthCare.com, frequent oral care, lozenges or chewing gum may help with persistent dry mouth. Contact your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms, because your calcium gluconate dosage may need to be adjusted.
Allergic Reaction
Calcium gluconate may cause an allergic reaction in some users. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, hives, swelling of the face, hands, mouth, throat, difficulty breathing, chest tightness and tingling of the mouth or throat. An allergic reaction is considered a medical emergency. Contact your doctor and seek medical treatment right away if you experience any of these symptoms.
Side Effects of Intravenous or Intramuscular Use
Depending on the severity of your illness, your doctor may decide to give calcium gluconate intravenously or as an injection. In addition to the side effects previously discussed, intravenous calcium gluconate has its own side effects that you should be aware of including tingling sensations, a feeling of warmth, a chalky taste in the mouth, lightheadedness, fainting, confusion and a slow or irregular heartbeat. In addition, redness, swelling and infection may occur at the injection site if given intramuscularly. If you experience any of these symptoms during an infusion of calcium gluconate, report them to your doctor or nurse right away because the remainder of the infusion may need to be discontinued.
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