What Is Calcium Glubionate?

What Is Calcium Glubionate?
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Calcium glubionate, also known as glubionate calcium, is a nutritional supplement containing calcium. The supplement is available in powdered or liquid forms, as well as in chewable or effervescent tablets. Consult your doctor before starting to take any new supplements, and tell your doctor if you currently take other calcium supplements, antacids or antibiotics or if you have a history of kidney stones or parathyroid gland disease.

Role of Calcium

Calcium is essential for your body to grow and maintain your bones, muscles, cells and nervous system. If your blood levels of calcium are insufficient, your body will draw calcium from your bones, and this can lead to a general weakening of your bones and skeleton. Calcium is also essential for the health of your teeth and nails. As you age, you may need to increase your calcium intake to avoid the bone-thinning disease osteoporosis.

Use of Calcium Glubionate

Calcium glubionate is typically prescribed to either prevent low blood calcium levels or to increase blood calcium levels when they are low. A calcium supplement such as calcium glubionate is appropriate if you do not get sufficient calcium from the foods and drinks you consume regularly. Some of the conditions that may be treated with calcium glubionate include osteoporosis, rickets, weak bones, low parathyroid gland activity or hypoparathyroidism and the muscle disease known as latent tetany. Calcium supplements may be recommended for women who are postmenopausal, pregnant or breastfeeding.

Types

Calcium glubionate is typically prescribed as an oral supplement to be taken at meals. Two types of tablets are usually available: One is chewed before swallowing and another is an effervescent tablet that is dissolved in water. Calcium glubionate is also available in liquid or powdered forms that can be added directly to your food. If your daily dose of calcium glubionate is greater than 600 mg, it is recommended that you divide this dose throughout the day for optimal absorption. Follow the dosage instructions your doctor gives you for calcium glubionate.

Side Effects

Rarely, individuals experience a serious allergic reaction to calcium glubionate. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include breathing problems, facial swelling, tongue swelling, throat constriction or hives. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction to calcium glubionate. Some more common and less serious potential side effects of calcium glubionate include constipation, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, a dry mouth or increased urination.

References

Article reviewed by Sandy Nelson Last updated on: Jul 10, 2011

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