How Long Between Doses Of Calcium Supplements?

Your body needs calcium to build strong bones and teeth, which make up 99 percent of your body's calcium supply. Your blood contains the remaining 1 percent. The body also uses calcium to aid muscle contraction, nerve conduction and blood clotting. If you don't get enough calcium from your diet, your body begins to remove calcium from your bones. For that reason, some people take calcium supplements to ensure their bodies have a sufficient supply.

Dose

Talk to your doctor to determine how much calcium you need. If you have certain medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, you might need to take much more calcium than others. Also, ask your doctor whether any other medications or supplements you take might interact with the calcium supplements. For example, for your calcium supplement to be effective, you might need to take it several hours before or after antibiotics, high blood pressure medications or biophosphonates.

Low-Dosage Timing

Once you know your dosage, you can determine the timing. Your body absorbs calcium most efficiently in doses of 500 to 600 mg. If your doctor recommends supplemental calcium intake within this range, you can take your calcium supplement at any time of day, unless your doctor specifies otherwise.

High-Dosage Timing

Split up larger dosages of calcium to ensure proper absorption. For example, divide a 1,000 mg dose in two, and take them separately at least four to six hours apart. Note that this is a general recommendation and doesn't override anything your doctor says concerning your particular condition and needs.

Considerations

Calcium supplements come in compound form, meaning the calcium they deliver is accompanied by other substances. Follow the directions provided by the supplement manufacturer. Typically, you should take calcium supplements that contain calcium carbonate with food so the digestive acids your stomach produces can aid in the absorption. If your calcium supplements are calcium citrate, you don't need to take them with food. If you're not sure, ask your doctor or pharmacist for help.