Healcal
Healcal Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Healcal is a brand name. Its generic name is Calcium Carbonate.
Healcal
Calcium carbonate is a chemical compound consisting of calcium, carbon, and oxygen, and is the active ingredient found in antacid medications. It is used to treat heartburn, indigestion, and other forms of stomach upset. It is also commonly used to supplement calcium levels in individuals who have low calcium diets or who may have calcium absorbed inadequately from foods.
Uses for Healcal
Calcium carbonate is used to help treat a variety of conditions, including heartburn, upset stomach, and acid indigestion. It can also be used to supplement calcium in individuals who have low calcium diets. Additionally, calcium carbonate is often used as an antacid for people with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux.
Mechanism of Action
When taken as an antacid, calcium carbonate works by neutralizing stomach acid. It binds to hydrogen and chlorine ions in the stomach, forming calcium chloride and carbonic acid. This helps to reduce heartburn and acid indigestion.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
Calcium carbonate begins to work as an antacid almost immediately after ingestion. It typically takes between five and ten minutes for it to begin working.
Absorption
Calcium carbonate is rapidly absorbed from the gut into the bloodstream. It has a bioavailability of approximately 35%, meaning that the amount of calcium carbonate absorbed as an antacid is approximately 35% of the total taken.
Route of Elimination
Calcium carbonate is eliminated from the body primarily through the kidneys. Approximately 95% is eliminated in the urine with the remainder being eliminated via the feces.
Dosage
The recommended dose of calcium carbonate is 500mg to 1000mg taken between meals and at bedtime, not exceeding 6000mg in total in 24 hours. The dose should be taken with a full glass of water (8oz) to help ensure full absorption in the stomach.
Administration
Calcium carbonate can be taken orally as a tablet, capsule, or powder. It can also be mixed into a beverage or taken with food or other medications.
Side Effects
Common side effects of calcium carbonate include constipation, nausea, and upset stomach. Other more serious side effects may include increased risk of kidney stones, bone fractures, and heart attack due to high calcium levels in the blood.
Toxicity
Calcium carbonate is generally considered safe and has a low risk of toxicity. The only risk of toxicity is if very large doses are taken in any one day, as this may lead to increased calcium levels in the blood which can be fatal.
Precaution
Patients should consult their physician prior to taking calcium carbonate. It should not be taken if you have a history of high calcium levels in your blood or if you are taking any prescription medications that can interact with calcium carbonate.
Interaction
Calcium carbonate can interact with medications that reduce stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors or H2 antagonists. It can also interact with magnesium antacids or medications that contain aluminum, as this may reduce the overall effectiveness of calcium carbonate.
Disease Interaction
Calcium carbonate may interfere with the absorption of certain medications used to treat kidney disease, as well as medications used to treat heart disease. Additionally, it may increase the risk of kidney stones in individuals who have history of kidney disease.
Drug Interaction
Calcium carbonate can interact with medications that reduce stomach acid such as proton pump inhibitors or H2 antagonists. It can also interact with medications containing aluminum, magnesium, iron, or bismuth which may reduce the effectiveness of the calcium carbonate and make it less effective.
Food Interactions
Calcium carbonate may reduce the absorption of certain vitamins, minerals, or other medications if taken at the same time. It should be taken at least 2 hours before or after a meal.
Pregnancy Use
Calcium carbonate is generally safe to use during pregnancy and there are no known risks associated with taking it during this time. However, pregnant women should always consult their physician prior to taking any medications.
Lactation Use
Calcium carbonate is not known to cause any adverse effects in breastfeeding women and is safe to use while breastfeeding. However, as always, it is recommended that breastfeeding women consult their physicians prior to taking any medications.
Acute Overdose
An acute overdose of calcium carbonate is rare, but may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and malaise. High levels of calcium in the blood can cause coma and even be fatal. It is important to contact a healthcare provider immediately if an acute overdose of calcium carbonate is suspected.
Contraindication
Calcium carbonate should not be taken if you have a history of high calcium levels in the blood, kidney disease, or if you are taking any prescription medications that can interact with calcium carbonate. It should also not be taken if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have other medical conditions.
Use Direction
Calcium carbonate should be taken orally with a full glass of water (8oz). The recommended dose is 500mg to 1000mg taken between meals and at bedtime, not exceeding 6000mg in total in 24 hours. It should be taken at least 2 hours before or after a meal.
Storage Condition
Calcium carbonate should be stored at room temperature, in a dark and dry place, away from direct sunlight and away from children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution for calcium carbonate is 0.57 L/kg.
Half Life
The half-life of calcium carbonate is approximately 1.5 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of calcium carbonate is 9.6 L/hr/kg.
Here you find in details version of Healcal
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Healcal
What is Healcal?
Healcal is a chemical compound typically found in rocks in all parts of the world and is the main component of shells of marine organisms, snails, pearls, and eggshells.
What can Healcal be used for?
Healcal can be used in a variety of ways ranging from pharmaceutical to construction. In pharmaceuticals, it can be used as an antacid or calcium supplement. In construction, it is used as a filler or pigment in cement and also as an agricultural soil treatment.
How is Healcal formed?
Healcal is formed by a chemical reaction between calcium ions (Ca2+) and carbonate ions (CO3-) usually in an oxygen-depleted environment such as the deep ocean. Over time, calcium carbonate can accumulate in sedimentary rocks and other environments.
What are the different forms of Healcal?
There are three main forms of Healcal: calcite, aragonite, and vaterite. Calcite is the most stable form and is the most common. Aragonite is slightly less stable and is found in some fossils and eggshells. Vaterite is the least stable form and is rarely found in nature.
Is Healcal safe?
Yes. Healcal is generally considered safe when taken in appropriate dosages. However, it is important to consult your physician before taking calcium carbonate as it can cause some side effects.
How can Healcal be taken?
Healcal can be taken orally in pill or tablet form, or it can be mixed with water and taken as a liquid. Some people may also sprinkle it on food or put it in food.
What are the benefits of Healcal?
The benefits of taking calcium carbonate include maintaining strong bones, improving heart health, helping reduce muscle cramps and spasms, and lowering blood pressure. It can also help reduce the risk of stroke.
What are the side effects of Healcal?
Common side effects of taking calcium carbonate include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and bloating. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as kidney stones, low blood calcium levels, and bone pain.
What is the recommended daily dosage of Healcal?
The recommended daily dosage of calcium carbonate for adults is 1,000-1,200 mg per day. However, it is important to consult your physician before taking any supplements, as individual needs may vary.
What foods contain Healcal?
Healcal can be found in a variety of foods including milk, hard cheese, yogurt, salmon, orange juice, and some leafy green vegetables. It can also be found in some fortified cereals, bread, and non-dairy milk.
Is Healcal vegan?
Yes. Healcal is a vegan-friendly supplement and is not derived from any animal products.
Is Healcal the same as Calcium Citrate?
No. Healcal and Calcium Citrate are two different forms of calcium and have different properties and effects on the body. Healcal is best absorbed with food, while Calcium Citrate is better absorbed on an empty stomach. Consult your physician or nutritionist before taking any calcium supplement.
How quickly does Healcal start working?
Healcal begins to work within minutes of ingestion, although the full effects may take a few days. It is important to take Healcal with food for maximum absorption.
How long does Healcal stay in the body?
Healcal is absorbed quickly by the body and excreted in urine within 2-4 hours. However, it is important to maintain a steady level of calcium in the body by taking regular doses of dietary supplements.
What is the difference between Healcal and Calcium Oxide?
Healcal is an odorless white powder that is commonly found in rocks, while Calcium Oxide is an odorless yellow powder that can be made by heating limestone or seashells. Healcal is used in a variety of ways while Calcium Oxide is mainly used as a fertilizer and building material.
Can Healcal cause kidney stones?
In rare cases, Healcal can cause kidney stones in individuals with pre-existing conditions. It is important to consult your physician before taking Healcal if you have a history of kidney stones.
Can Healcal be taken with other medications?
In general, Healcal is safe to take with most other medications, but it is important to consult your physician before taking Healcal if you are taking any other medications or supplements.
Is Healcal water-soluble?
Yes. Healcal is water-soluble and can dissolve in water.
Does Healcal help to reduce acidity in the body?
Yes. Healcal helps to neutralize acids in the body and can be used as an antacid to help reduce acidity in the stomach.
What are the potential risks of taking too much Healcal?
Taking too much Healcal can cause a build up of calcium in the blood, leading to hypercalcemia which can cause nausea, vomiting, confusion, and kidney stones.
Can Healcal be taken on an empty stomach?
No. Healcal is best taken with food, as food helps increase its absorption in the body.
What is the best form of Healcal to use for supplements?
The best form of Healcal to use for supplements is the calcite form, as it is the most stable form and has the highest absorption rate.
How does Healcal interact with other medications?
Healcal can interact with certain medications such as tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics, thyroxine, and some diuretics. It is important to consult your physician before taking any supplements or medications.
Does Healcal help with Vitamin D absorption?
Yes. Healcal helps to increase the absorption of Vitamin D, as it acts as a co-factor for Vitamin D absorption in the body. It is recommended to take the two supplements together for maximum benefits.
Does Healcal help with osteoporosis?
Yes. Healcal can help to increase bone density and can be used to help prevent or even reduce the effects of osteoporosis.
Is Healcal the same as Calcium Lactate?
No. Healcal and Calcium Lactate are two different chemical compounds. Healcal is a mineral salt found primarily in rocks, while Calcium Lactate is a by-product of fermentation that is easily absorbed by the body.
Can Healcal be taken with Vitamin D?
Yes. Healcal can be taken with Vitamin D, as Vitamin D helps increase the absorption of Healcal in the body. It is recommended to take the two supplements together for maximum benefit.
Can Healcal cause constipation?
Yes. Healcal can cause constipation in some people. It is important to increase your water intake and add fiber to your diet if you experience constipation while taking Healcal.
What is the best time to take Healcal?
It is best to take Healcal with food, as this helps increase its absorption in the body. It is also important to take Healcal consistently at the same time each day for the best results.
Can Healcal be taken with other vitamins and minerals?
Yes. Healcal can be taken with other vitamins and minerals, but it is important to consult your physician before taking any supplements, as individual needs may vary.
Can Healcal help with weight loss?
Yes. Studies have shown that taking Healcal can help reduce body fat, but it should not be taken as a weight-loss supplement, as it is best used to maintain good health and strong bones.
Can Healcal cause headaches?
In rare cases, Healcal can cause headaches, but it is important to consult your physician if you experience any unusual side effects while taking the supplement.
Can Healcal be taken during pregnancy?
Yes. Healcal can be taken during pregnancy, but it is important to consult with your physician before taking any supplement, as individual needs may vary.
What is the difference between Healcal and Calcium Gluconate?
Healcal is an odorless white powder that is commonly found in rocks, while Calcium Gluconate is a white powder made from glucose. Healcal is used in a variety of ways while Calcium Gluconate is mainly used to treat calcium deficiencies.
Does Healcal interact with food?
Yes. Healcal can interact with certain foods, as some foods can reduce its absorption in the body. It is important to consult your physician or nutritionist before taking Healcal to see which foods to avoid.
How do you take Healcal correctly?
It is important to take Healcal with food to ensure maximum absorbency. It is also important to take the supplement consistently at the same time each day for the best results.
Does Healcal have any drug interactions?
Yes. Healcal can interact with certain drugs and may enhance or decrease their effectiveness. It is important to consult your physician before taking any medications or supplements.