Shelcal HD

Calcium (137.5mg) + Vitamin D3 (5000IU) + Methylcobalamin (50mcg)
Price: ₹250 - ₹350 for 4 tablets (strip)
Mfr: Eris Lifesciences Ltd. | Form: Tablet

📋 Clinical Overview

A fixed-dose combination supplement primarily indicated for the prevention and treatment of calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, and vitamin B12 deficiency, particularly in the context of osteoporosis, osteomalacia, and nutritional deficiencies. The combination addresses bone health, neuromuscular function, and hematopoiesis synergistically.

💊 Dosage & Administration

Adult: One tablet/capsule once daily or as directed by the physician. For weekly Vitamin D3 dosing: One tablet/capsule once per week, often taken with a meal for better absorption of fat-soluble Vitamin D3.

Note: Take with or immediately after a meal to enhance calcium absorption and reduce gastric irritation. Swallow whole with a full glass of water. For weekly dosing, choose a fixed day (e.g., every Sunday). Do not take within 2 hours of iron supplements, tetracyclines, or fluoroquinolones.

⚠️ Contraindications

  • Hypercalcemia (serum calcium >10.5 mg/dL)
  • Hypervitaminosis D
  • Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min) due to risk of hypercalcemia and metastatic calcification
  • Known hypersensitivity to any component
  • Sarcoidosis or other granulomatous diseases (risk of uncontrolled vitamin D conversion)

🔬 Mechanism of Action

This combination works via three distinct but complementary pathways. Calcium provides the essential mineral for bone mineralization, blood coagulation, and muscle contraction. Vitamin D3 enhances intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphate, promotes bone remodeling, and regulates immune function. Methylcobalamin acts as a cofactor for methionine synthase (homocysteine metabolism) and L-methylmalonyl-CoA mutase (myelin synthesis), crucial for neurological health and red blood cell formation.

🤕 Side Effects

  • Constipation
  • Abdominal discomfort or bloating
  • Nausea
  • Headache

🤰 Special Populations

Pregnancy: Category A (for recommended dietary allowances). This high-dose combination is not for routine prenatal use. Used only if severe deficiency is diagnosed. Excessive Vitamin D in pregnancy may cause fetal hypercalcemia. Consult physician.

Driving: No known effects. However, severe hypercalcemia can cause confusion and drowsiness.

🔄 Drug Interactions

Thiazide Diuretics (e.g., Hydrochlorothiazide)Increased risk of hypercalcemia due to reduced renal calcium excretion.Major
DigoxinHypercalcemia potentiates digitalis toxicity, leading to serious cardiac arrhythmias.Major
Oral Bisphosphonates (e.g., Alendronate)Calcium supplements can interfere with absorption. Administer at least 2 hours apart.Moderate
LevothyroxineCalcium carbonate can decrease its absorption. Administer at least 4 hours apart.Moderate
Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisolone)Reduce calcium absorption and antagonize vitamin D action.Moderate
Orlistat, CholestyramineMay reduce absorption of fat-soluble Vitamin D3.Moderate
Proton Pump Inhibitors (e.g., Omeprazole)Long-term use may impair calcium carbonate absorption (requires acidic environment) and B12 absorption.Moderate
Phenytoin, PhenobarbitalIncrease metabolism of Vitamin D3, reducing its efficacy.Moderate

🔁 Alternatives to Shelcal HD

Same composition (Calcium (137.5mg) + Vitamin D3 (5000IU) + Methylcobalamin (50mcg)), different brands:

Calcirol D3 Max Neurobion Forte Osteo Ostocalcium D3 Max Calcium D3 Max + Mecobalamin