Calcium acetate is used to control hyperphosphataemia (abnormally high level of phosphate in the blood) in individuals with long-term kidney disease who are undergoing dialysis (a procedure that helps individuals with kidney failure to filter toxic substances from the blood).
Take Calcium acetate exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take this medicine together with food or immediately after a meal. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Calcium acetate is available as a tablet or capsule. Do not change from one drug form to another without consulting your doctor first.
Swallow the tablet or capsule whole with a glass of water.
If you have difficulty swallowing, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether you can break the tablet. Different brands or preparations of this medicine may be taken differently.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the severity of your condition and your response to the medication.
Calcium acetate must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have hypercalcaemia (high calcium level in the blood) as Calcium acetate may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- irregular or abnormal heartbeat
- hypoparathyroidism (low level of parathyroid hormones)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
For as long as you are taking Calcium acetate, you may need to have regular blood tests (e.g. blood calcium or phosphorus level) to check your body's response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have blood tests.
Calcium acetate may cause any of the following side effects: nausea, vomiting, constipation, and bloating.
If you develop sudden muscle weakness, tiredness, confusion, or bone pain, inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of hypercalcaemia.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- certain antibiotics e.g. ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin
- medicines used to treat osteoporosis (thinning and weakening of bones) e.g. bisphosphonates
- vitamin D
- calcium supplements
- medicines for certain heart problems e.g. digoxin, verapamil, gallopamil
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Calcium acetate.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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