Calcium carbonate is a dietary supplement and medication used to treat or prevent calcium deficiency in the body. It is an inorganic salt that contains calcium and carbonate ions and is commonly found in rocks and shells. Calcium is essential in various bodily functions, such as building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, nerve function, muscle function, and blood clotting.
Calcium carbonate is used as an antacid. Calcium carbonate is a primary compound that neutralises the hydrochloric acid in gastric secretions.
Calcium carbonate is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and oral suspensions. It is also an ingredient in some antacids to relieve heartburn symptoms and indigestion. When taken as a dietary supplement, calcium carbonate is typically recommended for individuals who do not consume enough calcium-rich foods or have an increased need for calcium, such as during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Calcium carbonate is generally considered safe when used as directed, although it can cause some side effects, such as constipation, gas, and bloating.
Calcium carbonate is available in various forms and dosage strengths for medical use. It is commonly found in oral dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and oral suspensions. The recommended dosage and frequency of calcium carbonate intake depend on the individual's age, health status, and reason for use.
To treat calcium deficiency, the typical adult dose of calcium carbonate ranges from 500 mg to 1,500 mg per day, divided into two to three doses. For children, the recommended dose is based on age and weight and is typically lower than the adult dose.
Calcium carbonate is also an ingredient in some antacids to relieve heartburn symptoms and indigestion. In this case, the recommended dosage depends on the specific product and the severity of the symptoms. Antacid products containing calcium carbonate usually provide 500-1,000 mg of calcium carbonate per dose and can be taken up to several times a day as needed.
It is essential to follow the dosing instructions provided by the healthcare provider or on the product label and to stay within the recommended dose without consulting a healthcare professional. Calcium carbonate should be taken with food to enhance absorption and reduce the risk of side effects, such as constipation and stomach upset.
Calcium carbonate is a naturally occurring compound. It cannot be patented as a chemical compound. However, manufacturers may hold patents on specific formulations or methods of production of calcium carbonate-based products. For example, a patent may be granted for a particular composition of calcium carbonate used in a pharmaceutical formulation or for a method of producing calcium carbonate with specific physical and chemical properties.
In the United States, for example, the wholesale price of calcium carbonate tablets can range from $0.01 to $0.10 per tablet, depending on the strength and quantity ordered. In Europe, the wholesale price of calcium carbonate medicine can range from €0.01 to €0.20 per tablet.
There are many manufacturers of Calcium carbonate-based products, including those who produce pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and industrial applications. Some of the well-known manufacturers of Calcium carbonate medicines and supplements include:
Some of the best-known Calcium carbonate pharmaceutical brands include:
These brands are commonly used to treat or prevent conditions such as osteoporosis, heartburn, acid indigestion, and calcium deficiency.
Calcium carbonate and calcium bicarbonate are both chemical compounds that contain calcium, carbon, and oxygen. There are some key differences between them:
It is important to note that "calcium carbonate" and "calcium bicarbonate" are sometimes used interchangeably or loosely. Hence, it is important to pay attention to the specific context in which they are used. Additionally, both compounds can have different properties depending on their physical form, purity, and other factors.
Pipelinepharma is a B2B pharmaceutical marketplace that can help pharma buyers source Calcium carbonate generics, nutraceuticals, and medical devices in the following ways: