Nowadays, many people, especially as they get older, use calcium and vitamin D pills to strengthen their bones, or when prescribed by a doctor, right? This is very common. However, even though it is just a vitamin, it can cause problems if not used properly. So today, let's talk about everything about these calcium and vitamin D pills, very simply, in a way that you can understand.
What is this calcium and vitamin D?
Simply put, this is a medicine that prevents and treats low levels of calcium and vitamin D in your body. Think of our bones as the pillars of a building. Calcium is like the cement that those pillars need. Vitamin D is like the person who helps the body absorb that cement. When these two come together, our bones are strong and healthy.
Not only that, but vitamin D is also very important for strengthening our immune system and brain health . So although these pills are mainly used for bone health, they have other benefits. Sometimes doctors may recommend them for other medical conditions as well.
Things to tell your doctor before starting this medication
This is very important. Before you start taking this medicine, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions. This is because he or she can then decide exactly whether this medicine is right for you or not, or at what dosage.
| Health condition or fact | Why should you inform the doctor? |
|---|---|
| High levels of calcium or vitamin D in the blood | If the level is already high, taking these pills may increase it further and cause complications. |
| Kidney disease or kidney stones | Because calcium is filtered by the kidneys, this can affect kidney patients. |
| Heart disease | Very high calcium levels can affect heart function. |
| Constipation or dehydration | Calcium pills can sometimes increase constipation. |
| Parathyroid disease | Because these glands control calcium levels in the body, care should be taken in this condition. |
| Diseases like sarcoidosis | In some of these medical conditions, vitamin D levels in the body may increase spontaneously. |
| Being pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | It is essential to seek medical advice in these cases, as the dosage required will vary. |
| Allergies to other medicines, foods or substances | This is important to know if you are allergic to anything in these pills. |
How should I use this medicine?
It is very important to take this medicine exactly as prescribed by the doctor, at the right time.
- Take this pill with a glass of water .
- It's usually best to take this with a meal or within an hour of eating . That way, it's better absorbed by the body.
- Continue using it until your doctor tells you to stop.
- Most importantly: This is a medicine for you only. Never share it with anyone else , even if they have the same symptoms as you.
Warning: If you are taking other medications (for example, thyroid medication, some antibiotics), you may need to change the time you take your calcium pills. This is because calcium can reduce the absorption of those medications. So, talk to your doctor about it and make sure you take them at the right times.
What if the dosage of the medicine is increased (overdose)?
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once (Do not take double doses).
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
Tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, not just prescription medications, but also over-the-counter medications, vitamins, traditional medicines, and herbs. Some medications may interact with these calcium tablets.
- Some antibiotics (e.g. ciprofloxacin, tetracycline)
- Digoxin for heart disease
- Some diuretics
- Iron supplements
- Medicines for fungal infections (e.g. fluconazole, ketoconazole)
- Thyroid medication
- Other vitamins or supplements containing calcium
This list is not complete, so it's safest to tell your doctor about everything you take.
Side effects that may occur when taking medication
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people. But most people don't. The table below will give you a clear idea of this.
| Classification of side effects | |
|---|---|
| 🚨 Things to report to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips/tongue/face, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of high calcium level | Frequent urination, excessive thirst, nausea, vomiting, mental confusion, extreme fatigue, bone pain. |
| 🙂 Things that are commonly seen, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Constipation | Dry stomach. |
| Stomach ache | Stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite. |
If you notice anything unusual that is not on this list, talk to your doctor about it too.
How should you store your medicine?
- Keep out of reach of children and pets .
- Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Keep away from excessive heat and moisture.
- Do not use expired medications . Dispose of them properly. If the medication label or package does not specify how to dispose of them, ask your doctor. If you would normally throw them in the trash, it is best to mix the pills with something like coffee grounds, soil, or cat litter and put them in a tightly sealed bag.
Take-Home Message
- Calcium and vitamin D tablets are very important for bone health, but they should only be used under medical advice.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have and all medications you are taking.
- Take the medicine at the right time, in the right dose, with food. Never take two doses at once.
- If you notice any signs of allergy or high calcium levels (excessive thirst, excessive urination), see a doctor immediately.
- Taking these pills alone is not enough. A well-balanced diet and exercise are also essential for your bone health.
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