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Calcium; Vitamin D Solution

What is this medication?

CALCIUM; VITAMIN D (KAL see um; VAHY tuh min D) prevents and treats low calcium and vitamin D levels in your body. Vitamin D and calcium help build and maintain the health of your bones. Vitamin D also plays an important role in supporting your immune system and brain health.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Constipation
  • Dehydration
  • Heart disease
  • High level of calcium or vitamin D in the blood
  • High level of phosphate in the blood
  • Kidney disease
  • Kidney stones
  • Liver disease
  • Parathyroid disease
  • Sarcoidosis
  • Stomach ulcer or obstruction
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to calcium, vitamin D, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth. Do not take this medication in the dry form. It must be mixed with liquid or soft food before swallowing. Follow the directions on the label. Do not use it more often than directed.

Mixing in liquid: Place the powder in a cup and mix with 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of water. Stir well and drink the mixture right away. If dose is not taken right away, stir again before taking.

Mixing in soft food: Place a spoonful of soft food (i.e., applesauce, pudding) in a cup and pour the powder on top. Place another spoonful of soft food on top and mix well. Take the mixture right away.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

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Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, tetracycline
  • Digoxin
  • Diuretics
  • Iron supplements
  • Medications for fungal infections, such as fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole
  • Mineral oil
  • Other vitamins with calcium, vitamin D, or minerals
  • Phenytoin
  • Quinidine
  • Sucralfate
  • Thyroid medication

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Taking this medication is not a substitute for a well-balanced diet and exercise. Talk with your care team and follow a healthy lifestyle.

Do not take any non-prescription medications that have vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium, or calcium, including antacids, while taking this medication, unless your care team says you can. The extra supplements can cause side effects.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • High calcium level—increased thirst or amount of urine, nausea, vomiting, confusion, unusual weakness or fatigue, bone pain

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Constipation
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Upset stomach
  • Vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, pour the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

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NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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