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Negatives About Citracal

As women age their bone density decreases, which can lead to osteoporosis. Citracal is an over-the-counter calcium citrate supplement meant to promote bone health and prevent osteoporosis. Citracal is sometimes recommended for people suffering from a calcium deficiency. However, Citracal is not without its negatives. For this reason, it's important to know as much as you can about Citracal before you begin taking it.

  1. Decreases Effects of Other Medications

    • Citracal and other calcium citrates can decrease the effects of many other medications. According to Drugs.com, it does so by binding to them or changing the acidity levels in the stomach and urine. For this reason, individuals should consult their doctors if they are taking any other medications before starting to take Citracal. This is particularly important if taking any medications for serious or life-threatening conditions.

    Must Be Taken With Food

    • It's recommended that Citracal be taken with meals to ensure maximum absorption into the body. This means that popping your Citracal whenever you remember to take it may not give you the best possible results. If you have problems remembering to take medications with meals, another calcium supplement that is more easily absorbed by the body may be best.

    Certain People Should Not Take It

    • Individuals who suffer from kidney stones or have parathyroid gland disease should not take Citracal, according to Drugs.com. Rarely, Citracal can even cause kidney stones, according to WebMd. For this reason, people who have had kidney stones in the past should not take Citracal. Additionally, people who already take antacids or other calcium supplements, or who take a tetracycline antibiotic like Sumycin should not take Citracal.

    May Cause Side Effects

    • People taking Citracal Petites or Citracal with Vitamin D may experience constipation or headaches. In addition, severe allergic reactions have been reported. Such reactions may include a rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness of the chest, and swelling of the mouth and face. However, allergies to calcium citrate are rare. Loss of appetite, nausea, severe or persistent constipation, and vomiting are also possible side effects, according to Drugs.com. Individuals who experience some or all of these symptoms should stop using Citracal immediately and consult a physician.

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