Brand name:

Caltrate 600

Pronounced: CAL-trait
Generic name: Calcium carbonate
Other brand names: Os-Cal 500, Oystercal 500

Why is this supplement prescribed?

Caltrate is a supplement for women who do not get enough calcium in their diets or have a need for more calcium. Calcium supplements may reduce the rate of bone loss and help prevent osteoporosis (brittle bones). Calcium is also needed for the heart, muscles, and nervous system to work properly. The vitamin D in Caltrate + Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, while the extra iron in Caltrate + Iron & Vitamin D supplements diets deficient in iron.

Most important fact about this supplement

If you do not get enough calcium in your diet, a calcium supplement may help prevent serious bone disease, especially later in life.

How should you take this supplement?

Follow the dosing instructions on the bottle. Do not take more than the recommended dose. Take calcium with meals, even if only a light snack. Drink a full glass of water or juice when taking a calcium supplement.

Certain foods, such as spinach, rhubarb, bran, whole cereals, and dairy products reduce absorption of calcium supplements. Allow 2 to 3 hours between taking calcium and eating any of these foods.

--If you miss a dose...
If you are taking the calcium supplement on a regular schedule, take the dose you missed as soon as possible and then go back to your regular dosing schedule.

--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

No side effects have been reported.

Why should this supplement not be used?

If you have any medical problems, check with your doctor before starting on a calcium supplement.

Special warnings about this supplement

Do not take more calcium than suggested on the packaging, as too much may cause excessive levels of calcium in the blood or increase the chance of kidney stones.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking this supplement

Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any medications, because dietary supplements and certain medications should not be used together. For example, if you are taking a tetracycline antibiotic, take your calcium supplement at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after you take the antibiotic.

Certain other drugs also may interact with calcium. Check with your doctor before combining calcium with the following:

   Atenolol (Tenormin)
   Iron preparations such as Feosol
   Quinolone antibiotics such as Cipro and Floxin

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Ask your doctor whether you should take a calcium supplement while you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Taking too much of any supplement may be harmful to you or your unborn child.

Recommended dosage

For Caltrate 600, Caltrate 600 + Iron & Vitamin D, and Caltrate 600 + Vitamin D tablets, use the following dosage recommendations:

ADULTS

The usual dose is 1 or 2 tablets daily or as directed by your doctor.

Overdosage

Mega doses of any dietary supplement can be harmful. If you have unexplained symptoms and suspect an overdose, check with your doctor.