Calcium Gluconate
Generic name: calcium gluconate (oral/injection) [ KAL-see-um-GLUE-koe-nate ]
What is calcium gluconate?
Calcium is a mineral that is found naturally in foods. Calcium is necessary for many normal functions of the body, especially bone formation and maintenance.
Calcium gluconate is used to prevent or to treat calcium deficiencies.
Calcium gluconate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Do not take calcium gluconate or antacids that contain calcium without first asking your doctor if you also take other medicines. Calcium can make it harder for your body to absorb certain medicines. Calcium gluconate works best if you take it with food.
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
To make sure calcium gluconate is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
heart problems;
kidney disease;
cancer;
a parathyroid gland disorder; or
high levels of calcium in your blood.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.
How should I use calcium gluconate?
Use calcium gluconate exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Calcium gluconate oral is taken by mouth. Check the label on your brand of this medicine to see if it should be taken with or without food.
Take calcium gluconate oral with plenty of water.
Calcium gluconate injection is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swelling around the IV needle when this medicine is injected.
Calcium gluconate may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes dietary changes. Learn about the foods that contain calcium.
Your dose may need to be adjusted as you make changes to your diet. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Hypocalcemia:
Intravenous:
500 to 2000 mg (5 to 20 mL) IV one time at a rate not to exceed 0.5 to 2 mL/min. The dose may be increased as needed. The usual daily dosage ranges from 1000 to 15,000 mg (10 to 150 mL) in divided doses or as a continuous infusion. Doses may be repeated every 1 to 3 days as needed and tolerated to normalize the serum calcium level.
Oral:
500 to 2000 mg orally 2 to 4 times a day.
Usual Adult Dose for Hypermagnesemia:
1000 to 2000 mg (10 to 20 mL) IV one time at a rat
