Calcium carbonate and magnesium chloride

Calcium and magnesium are minerals that occur naturally. Calcium is important for building and keeping bones strong. Magnesium helps keep muscles working well and supports a normal heartbeat.

Calcium carbonate and magnesium chloride is a combination medicine used as a supplement. Calcium carbonate and magnesium chloride is taken when your diet does not supply enough of these minerals, or when they are lost through sweating.

Calcium carbonate and magnesium chloride may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

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

Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you are taking.

You should not use calcium carbonate and magnesium chloride if you have ever had an allergic reaction to an antacid or vitamin/mineral supplement that contains calcium carbonate or magnesium chloride.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have:

• kidney disease;
• a history of kidney stones;
• heart disease; or
• a blockage in your intestines.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.

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

Calcium carbonate and magnesium chloride may cause serious side effects. Stop using calcium carbonate and magnesium chloride and call your doctor right away if you have:

• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, increased thirst or urination;
• muscle pain or weakness, joint pain;
• confusion, feeling tired or restless; or
• slow heart rate, drowsiness, feeling light-headed.

Common side effects of calcium carbonate and magnesium chloride may include:

• diarrhea;
• constipation; or
• upset stomach.

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.

Since calcium carbonate and magnesium chloride is taken as needed, you may not have a regular dosing schedule. If you miss a dose and it’s almost time for your next one, just 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.

Avoid taking other medicines at the same time you take calcium carbonate and magnesium chloride.

Calcium carbonate can make it difficult for your body to absorb certain medications, which can make them less effective. If you take other medicines, take your calcium carbonate and magnesium chloride dose 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take the other medicine.

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

• an antibiotic;
• heart or blood pressure medicine; or
• medicine to treat osteoporosis or Paget's disease of bone--Actonel, Boniva, Fosamax, Reclast, Zometa, and others.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect calcium carbonate and magnesium chloride, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.