Stomach ache, chest pain, stomach discomfort after eating... For things like this, you also go to the pharmacy and ask for a "gastritis pill" and take it, right? Most of the pills you take are this medicine called Calcium Carbonate. Although many people use this medicine frequently, few know exactly what it is. So, today we will talk about this medicine and the things to be careful about when using it, in a simple way, like a friend.
What is this Calcium Carbonate?
Simply put, this is a medicine that reduces the acidity in your stomach, that is, your stomach, and gives you relief. We medically call this an antacid . This medicine can provide quick relief from conditions such as heartburn and indigestion that occur when stomach acid increases.
And it has another benefit. As the name suggests, because it contains calcium, doctors sometimes recommend this medicine as a calcium supplement for people with low calcium levels in the body. As you know, calcium is essential for strong bones, healthy teeth, and heart function .
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important to inform your doctor about your health condition before taking any medication. Especially if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell them about them before taking calcium carbonate.
- Constipation: If you are someone who suffers from frequent constipation.
- Kidney disease: If you have a kidney disease or stones.
- High blood calcium levels (Hypercalcemia): If tests have found that your blood calcium levels are higher than normal.
- Stomach problems: If you have stomach ulcers, bleeding, or other blockages.
- Dehydration: If there is a lack of water in the body and there is a state of dehydration.
- Allergies: If you are allergic to calcium carbonate or other medications, foods, or preservatives.
- Special circumstances: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding , you should definitely tell your doctor about this as well.
Taking these medications over the counter without consulting a doctor can be very harmful and can be harmful for a long time. Therefore, always seek medical advice.
How to use the medicine correctly?
The way you use it is also very important. To get the most out of it, use it this way.
1. Chew and eat: Even though this is a pill, you shouldn't swallow it with water. You should chew it thoroughly and crush it before swallowing. That's when it will work faster.
2. Drink water: It is a good idea to drink a glass of water after chewing and swallowing the pill.
3. When to take: It is generally recommended to take these after meals and before going to bed at night. Or take them as directed by your doctor.
4. If giving to children: If giving this medicine to children, do so only on medical advice . Do not give more than the dosage prescribed by the doctor.
What to do if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken an overdose, don't panic. But don't take it lightly either. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This medicine is for you only, do not share it with others.
Other drugs that may interact with this medicine (Drug Interactions)
Calcium carbonate can interact with other medications you are taking, so it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. Be especially careful with these medications.
| Type of medicine | Things to consider |
|---|---|
| Some antibiotics (e.g. Tetracycline, Ciprofloxacin) | Calcium can reduce the absorption of this antibiotic into the body. Therefore, there should be a gap of at least 2 hours between taking these two medications. |
| Iron supplements | This can also reduce the body's absorption of iron. It is important to keep a gap of several hours. |
| Thyroid medication | It may interfere with the effectiveness of thyroid medication. Doctors advise leaving at least a 4-hour gap between these two medications. |
| Other medications (e.g. Gabapentin, Digoxin, Phenytoin) | Calcium carbonate can affect the way many other medications work, so tell your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, and supplements you're taking. |
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Although most people do not experience serious side effects, sometimes things like this can happen.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reaction | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Seek immediate medical attention. |
| Symptoms of increased calcium in the blood (Hypercalcemia) | Thirst more than usual, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, confusion, extreme fatigue. Tell your doctor immediately. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Constipation | This is quite common. Drink plenty of water, eat fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables). If it persists, tell your doctor . |
| Burping/Gas | This is usually nothing to worry about, but if you are concerned, talk to your doctor. |
Remember, if your symptoms do not improve within two weeks , or if they get worse, stop taking this pill and see a doctor. Also, if your stools turn black, like tar, seek medical advice immediately, as this could be a sign of stomach bleeding.
Take-Home Message
- Calcium Carbonate is a short-term remedy for stomach upset and indigestion. Do not use it for long periods of time without consulting a doctor.
- When taking this medicine, you should chew it well before swallowing. Then drink a glass of water.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking and any other illnesses you have.
- If symptoms do not improve after more than two weeks of use, or if there are warning signs such as black stools, see a doctor immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with others.
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