Calcium Acetate

Information About Calcium Acetate

Uses of Calcium Acetate

Calcium acetate is commonly used to treat increased phosphate levels in blood or hyperphospatemia associated with chronic renal insufficiency.

How Calcium Acetate Works

Calcium Acetate forms an insoluble salt when reacting with phosphate in the gut. Therefore less phosphate will get absorbed leading to a lower concentration of phosphate in the bloodstream.

Side Effects of Calcium Acetate

Gastrointestinal irritation or GI upset, May lead to hypercalcemia

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Calcium Acetate Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

Calcium Acetate binds to phosphate in food inhibiting them from being absorbed. Taking this medication with alcohol might interfere with the process. Therefore it is not recommended to take Calcium Acetate with alcohol.

Pregnancy Not Safe

There was no report shown that Calcium Acetate is harmful when taken during pregnancy. However, it may increase the risk of hypercalcemia especially if co-administered with vitamin D. Limited data available on the pregnancy safety of Calcium Acetate in humans. The usage of this medication in pregnant women should only be administered when benefit outweighs the risk.

Lactation Limited Data

No adequate studies have been conducted to determine the safety of Calcium Acetate in breastfeeding. This medication is distributed in breastmilk. Therefore, this medication should only be used in breastfeeding mothers only if the risk outweighs the benefit.

Driving Generally Safe

It is safe to drive while taking Calcium Acetate. However, you should drive only when you are feeling well.

Kidney Use With Care

Calcium Acetate should be avoided in patients with renal calculi or history of renal calculi. Use in medication with caution in patients with chronic renal disease, undergoing hemodialysis and disease associated with hypercalcemia such as malignancies and sarcoidosis.

Liver Limited Data

Calcium Acetate is safe to be used in the patient with liver problems.