Calcium and vitamin D combination

Calcium is a mineral that is important for many body functions, particularly for building and maintaining bones. Vitamin D helps the body take in calcium.

Calcium and vitamin D combination is used to treat or prevent a lack of calcium.

There are many brands and forms of calcium and vitamin D combination available. Not all brands are included in this leaflet.

Calcium and vitamin D combination may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

If you decide to use calcium and vitamin D combination, follow the instructions on the package or those given by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than what is recommended on the label.

Your dose may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of calcium and vitamin D combination. To avoid mistakes, use it exactly as directed on the label or as prescribed by your doctor.

Taking more than the recommended dose will not make the calcium and vitamin D combination product work better and could lead to serious side effects.

Check the label of your calcium and vitamin D combination product to see if it should be taken with or without food.

Take the regular tablet with a full glass of water.

The chewable tablet must be chewed before swallowing.

Do not crush, chew, or break an extended-release tablet. Swallow it whole.

Shake the oral liquid. Measure a dose using the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Calcium and vitamin D may only be part of a complete treatment plan that also includes changes to your diet. Learn about the foods that contain calcium and vitamin D.

Your dose may need to be adjusted as you change your diet. Follow your doctor's instructions closely.

The recommended daily dose of calcium and vitamin D varies with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You may also check the Office of Dietary Supplements of the NIH or the USDA Nutrient Database for recommended daily allowances for more information.

Follow all storage instructions that come with the calcium and vitamin D combination. Your pharmacist can give you more information on how to store it.

Follow all instructions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed. Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

You should not use calcium and vitamin D combination if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using calcium and vitamin D combination if you have health problems or use other medications.

Ask a doctor before using calcium and vitamin D combination if you plan to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, trouble breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, or you may have none at all.

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.

Usual Adult Dose for Osteoporosis:

Calcium - General Range: 1000 mg to 1300 mg dailyVitamin D - General Range: 200 international units to 800 international units dailyNote: While much larger vitamin D dosages have been recommended as a single agent, many calcium-vitamin D combination supplements will contain approximately 200 international units to 400 international units of vitamin D per dose.

Usual Adult Dose for Dietary Supplement:

Calcium - General Range: 1000 mg to 1300 mg dailyVitamin D - General Range: 200 international units to 800 international units dailyNote: While much larger vitamin D dosages have been recommended as a single agent, many calcium-vitamin D combination supplements will contain approximately 200 international units to 400 international units of vitamin D per dose.

Take calcium and vitamin D combination as soon as possible. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

• Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking any multivitamins, mineral supplements, or antacids while you are taking calcium and vitamin D combination.

Calcium can make it difficult for your body to absorb some medicines, and some medicines can make it harder for your body to absorb vitamin D. If you take other medications, take them at least 2 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after you take calcium and vitamin D combination.

Other drugs may affect calcium and vitamin D combination, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are using.