Can a Person Overdose on Calcium?

Calcium poses no health risks when taken as prescribed. While calcium is an essential vitamin to support the growth of bones, too much calcium can cause serious side effects on your body.

Recommended Dosage

• The recommended daily dosage for calcium intake is between 800 to 1200 milligrams a day for adults, as indicated by the Mayo Clinic website.

Tolerable Levels

• Symptoms of overdose will occur when calcium levels exceed the tolerable upper level intake. The UL of calcium is 2500 mg, which is the maximum an adult can take before toxicity occurs. Calcium can be obtained from other dietary sources besides supplements.

Early Signs

• According to the Mayo Clinic, initial symptoms of calcium overdose include constipation, headache, dry mouth, irritability, as well as other symptoms. Kidney stones can develop as a possible sign of overdose.

Progression of Overdose

• Calcium overdose can result in decreased urination, a fast heartbeat and high blood pressure. Confusion, drowsiness and sensitivity to light may also occur.