Calcium supplements: What They Do, Medicines
Calcium supplements are used to top up calcium when food does not give enough. Calcium helps build and maintain bones and teeth. They are only a top-up, and too much can cause stomach pain, diarrhoea and kidney problems.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Calcium supplements work?
Calcium supplements supply calcium that the gut absorbs and the body uses to build and maintain bones and teeth and to support muscles and nerves. Vitamin D, often added, helps the gut absorb more calcium.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Calcium supplements. They are listed A to Z.
- Calcium carbonate: Calcium carbonate is a calcium supplement used to top up calcium when food does not give enough.
Common questions
Do I need a calcium supplement?
Most adults need about 700 mg of calcium a day and can get it from a balanced diet. A supplement is only for people whose diet falls short, and a doctor or pharmacist can advise. Follow the label.
Why is calcium often sold with vitamin D?
Vitamin D helps the gut absorb calcium. The two are often combined for bone health. Check the amounts on the label and do not add other calcium or vitamin D products without asking.
Can calcium supplements interfere with other medicines?
Yes. Calcium can reduce the absorption of thyroid tablets, iron, some antibiotics and bone-strengthening tablets, so a gap between doses is often needed. Ask your pharmacist how long.
Sources
- Calcium. NHS (UK)
- Osteoporosis. NHS (UK)
- ATC/DDD Index: A12AA04 Calcium carbonate. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology