calcium gluconate (oral/injection)

What is the most important information I should know about calcium gluconate?

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

What is calcium gluconate?

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 gluconate is used to prevent or to treat calcium deficiencies.

Calcium gluconate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using calcium gluconate?

Calcium gluconate injection should not be used in neonates (28 days of age or younger) receiving ceftriaxone.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• heart problems;
• kidney disease;
• kidney stones;
• cancer;
• a parathyroid gland disorder; or
• high levels of calcium in your blood.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.

How should I use calcium gluconate?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Calcium gluconate oral is taken by mouth. Check the label of your calcium gluconate product to see if it should be taken with or without food.

Calcium gluconate injection is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swelling around the IV needle when calcium gluconate is injected.

Calcium gluconate may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes dietary changes. Learn about the foods that contain calcium.

Your calcium gluconate dose may need to be adjusted as you make changes to your diet. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while using calcium gluconate?

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

What are the possible side effects of calcium gluconate?

• little or no urinating;
• swelling, rapid weight gain;
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• slow or irregular heartbeats; or
• high levels of calcium in your blood --nausea, vomiting, constipation, increased thirst or urination, muscle weakness, bone pain, confusion, lack of energy, or feeling tired.

Common side effects may include:

• warmth, tingling, or a heavy feeling;
• a chalky taste in your mouth;
• upset stomach, gas; or
• constipation.

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.

What other drugs will affect calcium gluconate?

Calcium can make it harder for your body to absorb certain medicines. If you take other medications, take them at least 2 hours before or 4 or 6 hours after you take calcium gluconate.

Tell your doctor about all your current medicines. Many drugs can affect calcium gluconate, especially:

• baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza);
• digoxin (digitalis);
• an antibiotic; or
• other forms of calcium.

This list is not complete and many other drugs may affect calcium gluconate. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about calcium gluconate.