Calcium 1120mg is a high-dose mineral supplement providing elemental calcium, typically as calcium carbonate (equivalent to 2.8g of calcium carbonate). It is a critical cation for numerous physiological functions, primarily bone mineralization, neuromuscular conduction, cardiac function, and blood coagulation. In the Indian context, it is widely used for prophylaxis and treatment of calcium deficiency, especially in populations with low dietary intake, postmenopausal women, and the elderly.
Adult: 1120 mg elemental calcium per day, typically divided into 2-3 doses (e.g., 560 mg twice daily) to improve absorption. For osteoporosis: 1000-1200 mg/day total dietary + supplemental intake.
Note: Take with a full glass of water. For optimal absorption of carbonate salt, take with or immediately after meals. If taking once daily, bedtime administration may help suppress nocturnal bone resorption. Do not take within 2 hours of iron supplements, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, levothyroxine, or bisphosphonates.
Calcium is the primary mineral component of hydroxyapatite crystals, providing rigidity and strength to bones and teeth. Ionized calcium (Ca2+) in extracellular fluid and cytosol acts as a universal intracellular messenger, crucial for neurotransmitter release, muscle contraction (via interaction with troponin C), cardiac muscle excitation-contraction coupling, hormone secretion, and blood coagulation (as Factor IV). It stabilizes neuronal membranes and is a cofactor for numerous enzymes.
Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Requirement increases to 1200-1300 mg/day. 1120mg supplement can be used under supervision to meet increased demands. Avoid excessive doses. May help reduce risk of pre-eclampsia in high-risk, low-intake women.
Driving: No effect on driving ability.
| Levothyroxine | Calcium carbonate significantly decreases absorption of levothyroxine, reducing its efficacy. | Major |
| Bisphosphonates (Alendronate, Risedronate) | Calcium inhibits oral absorption. Administer at least 2 hours apart. | Major |
| Fluoroquinolones (Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin) | Chelation reduces antibiotic absorption and efficacy. | Major |
| Tetracycline antibiotics (Doxycycline) | Chelation reduces antibiotic absorption and efficacy. | Major |
| Iron supplements | Mutual inhibition of absorption. | Moderate |
| Thiazide diuretics (Hydrochlorothiazide) | Increase renal calcium reabsorption, leading to hypercalcemia. | Moderate |
| Digoxin | Hypercalcemia potentiates digitalis toxicity, increasing risk of arrhythmias. | Major |
| Vitamin D or Calcitriol | Additive effect, significantly increases risk of hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria. | Major |
Same composition (Calcium (1120mg)), different brands: