Os-Cal is a brand-name calcium supplement often combined with Vitamin D that physicians prescribe to treat osteoporosis. Calcium is a mineral your body needs to ensure bone strength and proper functioning of nerves and muscle. It is available under many brand names and various strengths. Available over-the-counter, it should only be used upon the advice of your physician. As with all other types of drugs, certain side effects have been reported with its use. Os-Cal contains oyster shell calcium. It is marketed by GlaxoSmithKline.
Severe Side Effects
Signs of an allergic reaction to Os-Cal include hives; itching; swelling of the face, tongue, lips and throat; and pressure in the chest. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Os-Cal, you should contact your physician immediately or go to your local emergency room.
Metabolic Side Effects
Rarely metabolic side effects such as hypophosphatemia (low blood phosphate levels) and hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels) have occurred with the use of Os-Cal. This is more likely to occur in patients with impaired renal function and can be quite severe. Patients undergoing kidney dialysis have a greater chance of developing hypercalcemia, and should use a calcium supplement only if their physician prescribes it. Frequent monitoring of blood calcium levels is important in this type of patient.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Stomach problems such as hyperacidity and acid reflux have been reported with the use of Os-Cal. Constipation is a common complaint with the use of calcium. A stool softener may be needed to maintain regularity. Rare instances of calcium carbonate gallstones have been reported in pediatric patients taking calcium supplements. Allergic reaction to Os-Cal may manifest itself as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or loss of appetite. Stop this medication if you experience any of these side effects and report them to your physician as soon as possible.
Renal Side Effects
Generally this medication is well tolerated, but rare cases of renal calculi (stones) have been reported. Only one case of a renal cyst caused by calcium deposits has ever been reported with the use of Os-Cal, according to a report published by Northeastern University. People with a history of kidney stones should take only on the advice of a physician, as additional calcium in the bloodstream may contribute to additional kidney stone formation.
Other Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have a personal or family history of impaired renal function, formation of kidney stones or kidney sand, or any type of heart problems. It is important that this medication be taken only in the way prescribed by your doctor. Do not take Os-Cal if you take digoxin (Lanoxin), tetracycline or other types of calcium supplements.
Tags: been reported, have been, have been reported, with Os-Cal, been reported with, calcium supplements
