Femcal 500

Femcal 500 is used for the treatment of acid reflux, heart burn and upset stomach. Femcal 500 works by neutralizing acids in the stomach thus relieving acid reflux and heart burn.

US Brand Name

Femcal 500

Generic Name

Elemental Calcium, Vitamin D3

Other Brand Name

Femcal 500

Packing

Manufacturer

Fem Care

Form

Tablet

Strength

Elemental Calcium 500 mg, Vitamin D3 250 IU

500 mg 10 tablets USD $5.00

Introduction to Femcal 500

Overview of Femcal 500

Femcal 500 is a specialized pharmaceutical formulation designed to support optimal calcium levels in the body. It is primarily prescribed for individuals suffering from calcium deficiencies, osteoporosis, and related metabolic bone disorders. By replenishing calcium reserves, it helps maintain skeletal integrity and overall physiological balance.

Therapeutic Classification and Primary Purpose

This medication falls under the category of calcium supplements and bone health regulators. It is often prescribed to patients with inadequate dietary calcium intake, malabsorption syndromes, or increased calcium demand due to medical conditions or life stages such as pregnancy and lactation.

Importance in Medical Treatment

Essential for bone mineralization and strength.
Plays a pivotal role in neuromuscular functions and cardiovascular health.
Supports enzymatic activity necessary for metabolic processes.

Composition and Active Ingredients

Key Active Ingredients in Femcal 500

Femcal 500 is primarily composed of calcium carbonate, a highly bioavailable form of calcium. Additionally, it may include vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) to enhance calcium absorption and utilization within the body.

Mechanism of Action of Each Ingredient

Calcium Carbonate: Neutralizes gastric acid and provides a concentrated source of calcium, which is absorbed in the intestines.
Vitamin D3: Facilitates the intestinal absorption of calcium and ensures its proper deposition in bones.

Additional Components and Their Functions

Femcal 500 may also contain excipients such as microcrystalline cellulose (for tablet structure), magnesium stearate (as a lubricant), and croscarmellose sodium (for better dissolution).

How Femcal 500 Works

Pharmacodynamics and Mechanism of Action

Once ingested, calcium carbonate dissociates in the stomach to release free calcium ions. These ions are then absorbed in the small intestine with the aid of vitamin D3. The absorbed calcium enters the bloodstream and is transported to bones, muscles, and other tissues where it plays a crucial role in maintaining physiological functions.

Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion (ADME)

Absorption: Primarily occurs in the duodenum and jejunum, facilitated by active transport mechanisms.
Distribution: Calcium is bound to proteins and transported to target organs.
Metabolism: Calcium itself is not metabolized but regulated by parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcitonin.
Excretion: Eliminated through feces (unabsorbed portion) and urine (regulated renal excretion).

How It Differs from Other Similar Medications

Femcal 500 distinguishes itself with its high elemental calcium content and superior bioavailability compared to other calcium salts such as calcium citrate. The inclusion of vitamin D3 further optimizes its therapeutic efficacy.

Approved Uses of Femcal 500

Primary Medical Indications

Femcal 500 is primarily used for the prevention and treatment of calcium deficiency-related disorders, including:

Osteoporosis
Osteopenia
Hypocalcemia
Rickets and osteomalacia

Conditions Treated with Femcal 500

In addition to bone disorders, this supplement is effective in managing conditions such as:

Postmenopausal calcium loss
Chronic kidney disease-related mineral imbalances
Hypoparathyroidism

Efficacy and Clinical Studies Supporting Use

Clinical trials have demonstrated that calcium supplementation, particularly in combination with vitamin D, significantly reduces fracture risk in elderly populations. Multiple studies affirm its role in improving bone mineral density and overall skeletal health.

Off-Label Uses of Femcal 500

Alternative Medical Conditions Treated

Femcal 500 is sometimes prescribed off-label for conditions such as:

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)-related symptoms
Muscle cramps and spasms
Hypertension management

Research and Clinical Trials Supporting Off-Label Use

Studies suggest that adequate calcium intake may help in blood pressure regulation and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Furthermore, calcium supplementation has been linked to improved muscle function in physically active individuals.

Risks and Benefits of Off-Label Prescription

While beneficial in certain cases, off-label use must be approached cautiously to avoid hypercalcemia, kidney stone formation, or interactions with other medications.

Dosage and Administration Guidelines

Recommended Dosage for Different Conditions

Adults: 500–1000 mg per day, divided into doses.
Pregnant and lactating women: Up to 1200 mg per day.
Osteoporotic patients: 1000–1500 mg daily.

How to Take Femcal 500 Correctly

To maximize absorption:

Take with meals to enhance bioavailability.
Avoid consuming with high-oxalate foods such as spinach.
Use as directed by a healthcare provider.

Dosage Adjustments Based on Patient Factors

Dosage may require modification in individuals with renal impairment, elderly patients, or those taking concurrent medications that affect calcium metabolism.

Missed Dose Instructions

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. Avoid double dosing.

What to Do in Case of Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, confusion, and kidney dysfunction. Immediate medical attention is necessary.

Common Side Effects of Femcal 500

Frequently Reported Side Effects

Gastrointestinal discomfort
Constipation
Hypercalcemia symptoms (e.g., thirst, frequent urination)

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Side Effects

Short-Term: Mild digestive disturbances.

Long-Term: Potential kidney stone formation and vascular calcification with excessive use.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Immediate medical consultation is required if experiencing persistent nausea, irregular heartbeat, or mental confusion.

Serious Side Effects and Risks

Severe Allergic Reactions and Anaphylaxis

Although rare, hypersensitivity reactions to Femcal 500 can manifest as severe allergic responses. Symptoms may include:

Urticaria (hives) and pruritus (intense itching).
Angioedema—swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
Respiratory distress, wheezing, or difficulty in breathing.
Anaphylactic shock in extreme cases, requiring immediate medical intervention.

Individuals with a known hypersensitivity to any component of Femcal 500 should avoid its use. Rapid administration of epinephrine and antihistamines is necessary in cases of anaphylaxis.

Organ-Specific Adverse Reactions

Femcal 500, when misused or taken in excessive amounts, may exert strain on specific organ systems, leading to severe complications.

Renal System: High calcium levels can result in nephrocalcinosis, nephrolithiasis (kidney stones), and renal impairment.
Gastrointestinal Tract: Excessive supplementation may cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal cramps.
Cardiovascular System: Hypercalcemia-induced cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, or vascular calcifications may arise with prolonged high-dose use.

Long-Term Risks and Complications

Prolonged intake, especially without medical supervision, can lead to chronic health concerns:

Soft tissue calcification, particularly in arteries and heart valves.
Gastrointestinal disturbances leading to malabsorption syndromes.
Increased risk of kidney dysfunction and progressive nephropathy.

Drug Interactions and Contraindications

Common Drug Interactions

Femcal 500 has the potential to alter the pharmacokinetics of several medications:

Bisphosphonates: Reduced absorption leading to decreased efficacy.
Tetracycline and Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics: Forms insoluble complexes, reducing antibiotic potency.
Thiazide Diuretics: May increase serum calcium levels, heightening the risk of hypercalcemia.
Glucocorticoids: Decreased calcium absorption, leading to potential deficiencies.

Effects of Combining Femcal 500 with Other Medications

Concurrent administration of certain drugs requires careful monitoring:

Vitamin D analogs—may amplify calcium absorption, increasing toxicity risk.
Iron supplements—calcium may hinder iron absorption; advisable to stagger intake.
Antacids—simultaneous use may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects.

Medical Conditions That Contraindicate Use

Patients with the following conditions should avoid or use Femcal 500 with extreme caution:

Hypercalcemia or hyperparathyroidism.
Chronic kidney disease or nephrolithiasis.
Cardiac arrhythmias influenced by electrolyte imbalances.

Warnings and Precautions

Precautions Before Starting Treatment

Before initiating therapy, a comprehensive medical evaluation should be conducted to assess:

Pre-existing conditions that may influence calcium metabolism.
Potential drug interactions that could alter therapeutic outcomes.
Dietary calcium intake to prevent excessive supplementation.

Potential Risks in Specific Patient Groups

Individuals with compromised renal function, cardiovascular disease, or metabolic disorders must be closely monitored.

Monitoring and Safety Measures

Routine serum calcium and renal function tests.
Periodic assessment of bone mineral density for long-term users.
Monitoring of cardiovascular health, particularly in elderly individuals.

Special Considerations for Different Patient Groups

Administration to Elderly Patients

Older adults may exhibit reduced calcium absorption and increased susceptibility to hypercalcemia. Low-dose initiation with gradual adjustments is recommended.

Administration to Pregnant Women and Nursing Mothers

Femcal 500 is commonly prescribed during pregnancy and lactation to support maternal and fetal calcium requirements. However, excessive intake should be avoided to prevent fetal hypercalcemia.