Side Effects of Calcium D

Calcium D is a supplement that is available over-the-counter and is used to treat or prevent blood calcium levels that are low. As with any medication, taking Calcium D can result in unwanted side effects. Calcium D should not be taken if a person has a medical history of certain conditions. A doctor should be consulted before beginning a regimen involving any medication including Calcium D.

Uses

• This medication is for people who have low blood-calcium levels or who do not receive enough calcium from their regular diets. Calcium D also treats conditions related to low calcium levels such as bone loss, which is also known as osteoporosis. This medication is also used to treat weak bones, decreased parathyroid gland activity known as hypoparathyroidisn and latent tetany. Tetany is defined as "a syndrome of sharp flexion of the wrist and ankle joints (carpopedal spasm), muscle twitching, cramps and convulsions, sometimes with attacks of stridor; due to hyperexcitability of nerves and muscles caused by decreased extracellular ionized calcium in parathyroid hypofunction, vitamin D deficiency or alkalosis, or following ingestion of alkaline salts," according to Dorland's Medical Dictionary for Health Consumers. Latent tetany is tetany brought on by mechanical or electrical stimuli, according to Mosby's Medical Dictionary. Women who are nursing, pregnant or menopausal may not be getting enough calcium, so a doctor may recommend using Calcium D.

Side Effects

• Several side effects are associated with Calcium D use. Many people who use Calcium D do not experience side effects, but the possibility is still present. The most common side effects linked to Calcium D use are stomach upset and constipation. Some more serious side effects may occur such as nausea or vomiting, unusual weight loss, loss of appetite, mental or mood changes, bone or muscle pain, increased thirst, headache, increased urination, increased thirst, weakness, tiredness or rapid heartbeat. A doctor should be contacted immediately if any serious side effects are experienced.

Warnings

• However rare, some people have been known to experience allergic reactions to Calcium D. Rashes, swelling of the tongue, face or throat, trouble breathing and severe dizziness are all signs of an allergic reaction to Calcium D. A doctor should be consulted and use should be discontinued immediately if signs of an allergic reaction emerge. This medication should not be taken if a person has high calcium/ vitamin D levels, a history of blood disease, kidney stones, liver disease or bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease.

Calcium

• Calcium is an important material for the body. According to webmd.com, "It is necessary for normal functioning of nerves, cells, muscle and bone. If there is not enough calcium in the blood, then the body will take calcium from bones, thereby weakening bones. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and phosphorus. Having the right amounts of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus is important for building and keeping strong bones."

Dosing

• Calcium D comes in different forms that offer different amounts of the medication, a person's doctor should make the judgment as to what form and what amount of the medication should be taken. This medication should be taken orally with food at the same time every day. If Calcium D chewable tablets are recommended, they should be chewed thoroughly before being swallowed.