What is Alkums (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 should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Alkums (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.

Alkums Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of Alkums (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.

Alkums Interactions

What other drugs affect Alkums (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 Alkums (Calcium Carbonate)?

Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Alkums Dosage

How should I take Alkums (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 Alkums (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 Alkums (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.

Edited from everydayhealth.com