CALCIUM CITRATE + VITAMIN D3 (CHOLECALCIFEROL)
Calcium Citrate: Drug: Calcium Citrate
Use: Calcium citrate is a dietary supplement used to prevent or treat calcium deficiency. It is commonly used by individuals who require extra calcium, such as those with osteoporosis, in pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for maintaining bone health.
Mechanism of Action: Calcium citrate works by supplying the body with additional calcium, an essential mineral for various bodily functions. Calcium is necessary for healthy bones, teeth, muscles, and nerve function. It also plays a vital role in blood clotting, hormone secretion, and enzyme function.
Dose: The recommended daily dosage of calcium citrate depends on age, sex, and individual needs. For adults, a common dosage is around 1000 mg (elemental calcium) per day, divided into two to three smaller doses. It is important to follow the recommended dosage instructions provided by the healthcare professional or specified on the product label.
Side Effects: Calcium citrate is generally well-tolerated when taken at recommended doses. However, some individuals may experience side effects such as constipation, bloating, flatulence, and stomach upset. In rare cases, high doses or prolonged use may lead to the development of kidney stones. It is advisable to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with a healthcare professional before starting calcium citrate supplementation.
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol): Drug: Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)
Use: Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is a dietary supplement used to treat or prevent vitamin D deficiency. It is also used in the management of certain medical conditions such as osteoporosis, rickets, and hypoparathyroidism.
Mechanism of Action: Vitamin D3 is a precursor of the active form of vitamin D in the body. Once ingested or synthesized in the skin through exposure to sunlight, cholecalciferol undergoes enzymatic conversions in the liver and kidneys to form calcitriol, the biologically active form of vitamin D. Calcitriol acts as a hormone and regulates the body’s calcium and phosphate balance, promoting bone health and mineralization.
Dose: The recommended dosage of vitamin D3 varies depending on age, individual needs, and the presence of vitamin D deficiency or specific medical conditions. Commonly, a daily maintenance dose for adults ranges from 600 to 2000 international units (IU). Higher doses may be prescribed for individuals with severe deficiency or specific conditions, and the dosage should be determined by a healthcare professional.
Side Effects: Vitamin D3 is usually safe when taken in recommended doses, as it is a natural component of the diet. However, excessive intake of vitamin D3 can lead to vitamin D toxicity, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, poor appetite, weakness, and increased thirst. Long-term, excessive intake can result in hypercalcemia (elevated blood calcium levels) and may lead to adverse effects on the kidneys, cardiovascular system, and bones. It is important to follow dosage instructions and consult a healthcare professional for appropriate monitoring.
