What is Oyster Shell (Calcium Carbonate)?
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 can also bind to other minerals (such as phosphate) and aid in their removal from the body.
Calcium carbonate is used to prevent and to treat calcium deficiencies.
Calcium carbonate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about Oyster Shell (Calcium Carbonate)?
Do not take calcium carbonate 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 carbonate works best if you take it with food.
(Calcium Carbonate)?
Do not take calcium carbonate 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 carbonate works best if you take it with food.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Oyster Shell (Calcium Carbonate)?
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have:
- a history of kidney stones; or
- a parathyroid gland disorder
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to take calcium carbonate, or you may need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.
Talk to your doctor before taking calcium carbonate if you are pregnant.
Talk to your doctor before taking calcium carbonate if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Oyster Shell Side Effects
What are the possible side effects of Oyster Shell (Calcium Carbonate)?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Less serious side effects may include:
- nausea or vomiting
- decreased appetite
- constipation
- dry mouth or increased thirst; or
- urinating more than usual
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Oyster Shell Interactions
What other drugs affect Oyster Shell (Calcium Carbonate)?
Calcium carbonate can make it harder for your body to absorb other medications you take by mouth. Tell your doctor if you are taking:
- digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps)
- antacids or other calcium supplements
- calcitriol (Rocaltrol) or vitamin D supplements; or
- doxycycline (Adoxa, Doryx, Oracea, Vibramycin), minocycline (Dynacin, Minocin, Solodyn, Vectrin), or tetracycline (Brodspec, Panmycin, Sumycin, Tetracap)
This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with calcium carbonate. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
What should I avoid while taking Oyster Shell (Calcium Carbonate)?
Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Oyster Shell Dosage
How should I take Oyster Shell (Calcium Carbonate)?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Calcium carbonate works best if you take it with food.
Swallow the calcium carbonate tablet or capsule with a full glass of water.
The chewable tablet should be chewed before you swallow it.
Use the calcium carbonate powder as directed. Allow the powder to dissolve completely, then consume the mixture.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. Measure the liquid with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I overdose on Oyster Shell (Calcium Carbonate)?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, constipation, confusion, delirium, stupor, and coma.
What happens if I miss a dose of Oyster Shell (Calcium Carbonate)?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Sourced from everydayhealth.com
