Caltrate; Tums; product brands and combinations vary
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Products vary in calcium carbonate content and elemental calcium per tablet; some products are combined with vitamin D.
Prescription classification
Non-prescription / OTC (verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
Used as a calcium supplement to prevent and treat calcium deficiency, and as an antacid for short-term relief of heartburn, indigestion, and acid stomach. Also used in kidney disease to control phosphate levels.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Avoid in people with hypercalcaemia, hypercalciuria, nephrolithiasis, or severe kidney disease. Not suitable if you have a known allergy to calcium carbonate.
Important precautions
High doses taken long-term can cause milk-alkali syndrome or kidney stones. Adequate fluid intake helps. Do not exceed recommended doses. If used for phosphate control in kidney disease, specialist supervision is needed.
Common side effects
Common effects include constipation, bloating, and flatulence. These are usually mild and dose-related.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Seek medical attention for symptoms of hypercalcaemia (confusion, excessive thirst, frequent urination, kidney pain) or severe constipation.
Important interactions
Calcium can interfere with absorption of iron, tetracyclines, quinolones, bisphosphonates, and levothyroxine. Space doses by at least 2 hours. Also interacts with thiazide diuretics, increasing hypercalcaemia risk.
Allergy considerations
Report any allergy to calcium carbonate or any inactive ingredients in the product you are using.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Calcium is important during pregnancy. Calcium carbonate supplementation is generally safe when used as directed. Confirm the right dose with your doctor.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Compatible with breastfeeding at recommended doses. Adequate calcium intake supports both mother and infant.
Children and older adults
Dosing varies by age and indication. Children's doses must be guided by a doctor. The elderly may have impaired absorption and should be assessed for vitamin D status at the same time.
Storage
Store in the original, tightly closed container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of children's reach.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose when you remember. If the next dose is soon, skip it and carry on as normal. Do not take double doses.
Overdose
Excessive calcium intake over time can raise blood calcium levels dangerously. Contact a poison helpline or doctor if you are concerned about an accidental large dose.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
Caltrate; Tums; product brands and combinations vary
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Products vary in calcium carbonate content and elemental calcium per tablet; some products are combined with vitamin D.
Prescription classification
Non-prescription / OTC (verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
Used as a calcium supplement to prevent and treat calcium deficiency, and as an antacid for short-term relief of heartburn, indigestion, and acid stomach. Also used in kidney disease to control phosphate levels.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Avoid in people with hypercalcaemia, hypercalciuria, nephrolithiasis, or severe kidney disease. Not suitable if you have a known allergy to calcium carbonate.
Important precautions
High doses taken long-term can cause milk-alkali syndrome or kidney stones. Adequate fluid intake helps. Do not exceed recommended doses. If used for phosphate control in kidney disease, specialist supervision is needed.
Common side effects
Common effects include constipation, bloating, and flatulence. These are usually mild and dose-related.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Seek medical attention for symptoms of hypercalcaemia (confusion, excessive thirst, frequent urination, kidney pain) or severe constipation.
Important interactions
Calcium can interfere with absorption of iron, tetracyclines, quinolones, bisphosphonates, and levothyroxine. Space doses by at least 2 hours. Also interacts with thiazide diuretics, increasing hypercalcaemia risk.
Allergy considerations
Report any allergy to calcium carbonate or any inactive ingredients in the product you are using.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Calcium is important during pregnancy. Calcium carbonate supplementation is generally safe when used as directed. Confirm the right dose with your doctor.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Compatible with breastfeeding at recommended doses. Adequate calcium intake supports both mother and infant.
Children and older adults
Dosing varies by age and indication. Children's doses must be guided by a doctor. The elderly may have impaired absorption and should be assessed for vitamin D status at the same time.
Storage
Store in the original, tightly closed container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of children's reach.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose when you remember. If the next dose is soon, skip it and carry on as normal. Do not take double doses.
Overdose
Excessive calcium intake over time can raise blood calcium levels dangerously. Contact a poison helpline or doctor if you are concerned about an accidental large dose.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
