Loading...
Loading...
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Brand Name
Calcarea Silicata
Generic Name
Calcarea Silicata
Active Ingredient
Calcium SilicateCategory
Parathyroid Hormone [EPC]
Variants
9
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-0130 |
| 100 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-0129 |
| 500 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-0131 |
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Calcarea Silicata, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| 1 [hp_M]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-0132 |
| 10 [hp_M]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-0133 |
| 6 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-0126 |
| 12 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-0127 |
| 30 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-0128 |
| 1 [hp_Q]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-0134 |
Detailed information about Calcarea Silicata
Calcium Silicate is a mineral-based therapeutic agent classified within the Parathyroid Hormone [EPC] class, primarily utilized for managing calcium homeostasis and supporting bone mineralization under clinical supervision.
The dosage of Calcium Silicate must be individualized based on the patient's clinical need, serum calcium levels, and the specific condition being treated. For general mineral supplementation and bone support, the standard adult dose typically ranges from 250 mg to 1,000 mg per day, usually divided into two or three doses to maximize absorption. In cases of documented hypocalcemia or secondary hyperparathyroidism, healthcare providers may prescribe higher doses, sometimes up to 2,000 mg per day, though this requires frequent monitoring of serum calcium and phosphorus levels. It is generally recommended not to exceed 500 mg of elemental calcium in a single dose, as the efficiency of absorption decreases significantly above this threshold.
Calcium Silicate use in pediatric populations must be strictly supervised by a pediatrician or pediatric endocrinologist. Dosing is often calculated based on age and elemental calcium requirements. For children aged 4 to 8, the total daily intake (including diet) should target approximately 1,000 mg of calcium; for adolescents aged 9 to 18, this increases to 1,300 mg. If Calcium Silicate is used to bridge a dietary gap, doses of 100 mg to 300 mg daily are common. However, because the long-term effects of concentrated silicate supplementation on developing bone are still being studied, it is only prescribed when other calcium sources are contraindicated or ineffective.
Patients with renal impairment require extreme caution. In individuals with a Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) below 30 mL/min, the risk of hypercalcemia and the accumulation of silicate is high. Dosage should be reduced by at least 50%, and serum calcium-phosphorus products must be monitored weekly to prevent soft tissue calcification.
No specific dosage adjustments are generally required for patients with hepatic impairment, as Calcium Silicate is not metabolized by the liver. However, if hepatic disease is associated with malabsorption (e.g., cholestatic liver disease), higher doses or alternative forms may be necessary.
Geriatric patients often have reduced gastric acid secretion (achlorhydria), which can impair the dissociation and absorption of Calcium Silicate. Healthcare providers may recommend taking the supplement with a meal or using a more soluble form. Furthermore, the increased risk of constipation in the elderly necessitates adequate fluid intake when taking this medication.
To ensure maximum efficacy and safety, follow these specific administration guidelines:
If you miss a dose of Calcium Silicate, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not 'double up' or take two doses at once to make up for a missed one, as this increases the risk of gastrointestinal distress and hypercalcemia.
Signs of a Calcium Silicate overdose (hypercalcemia) include severe nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, confusion, extreme thirst, frequent urination, and muscle weakness. In severe cases, it can lead to cardiac arrhythmias or coma. If an overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention immediately. Emergency treatment often involves aggressive intravenous hydration and the administration of loop diuretics to promote calcium excretion.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions exactly. Do not adjust your dose or stop taking this medication without medical guidance, as this could lead to significant fluctuations in your mineral balance.
Calcium Silicate is generally well-tolerated when taken at recommended dosages, but gastrointestinal effects are common. The most frequently reported side effect is constipation. This occurs because calcium can slow the transit time of stool through the colon. Patients may also experience gas (flatulence) and abdominal bloating. These symptoms are often transient and may improve as the body adjusts to the supplement or if the dose is divided more effectively throughout the day. Increasing dietary fiber and fluid intake can often mitigate these common issues.
Some patients may experience more pronounced gastrointestinal distress, including nausea or a metallic taste in the mouth. Hypercalciuria (excess calcium in the urine) may occur even if blood calcium levels remain within the normal range, which can increase the risk of developing nephrolithiasis (kidney stones). Patients might notice mild lower back pain or changes in urinary frequency. If these symptoms persist, a 24-hour urine calcium collection may be ordered by your healthcare provider to assess the risk of stone formation.
Calcium Silicate must be used with caution, particularly in patients with a history of mineral imbalances or renal dysfunction. It is not a simple 'vitamin' but a pharmacologically active mineral complex that influences the parathyroid-calcium axis. Patients should be aware that excessive intake from combined sources (diet, antacids, and supplements) can lead to systemic toxicity. Always inform every healthcare provider you visit that you are taking Calcium Silicate, as it can influence the interpretation of various diagnostic tests and the safety of other prescribed medications.
No FDA black box warnings for Calcium Silicate. Clinical data suggests that when used within established therapeutic ranges, the safety profile is acceptable for the intended populations.
Calcium Silicate should not be used concurrently with Ceftriaxone (intravenous) in neonates, as it can lead to the formation of life-threatening calcium-ceftriaxone precipitates in the lungs and kidneys. While this is primarily a concern with IV calcium, the systemic elevation of calcium from oral silicates warrants extreme caution. Additionally, avoid taking Calcium Silicate with high-dose Vitamin D analogues unless specifically directed, as this combination significantly increases the risk of severe hypercalcemia.
Calcium Silicate must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
Calcium Silicate is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used to meet the increased mineral demands of the developing fetus. It is often categorized as FDA Pregnancy Category B or C (depending on the specific manufacturer's data), meaning that while animal studies may not show risk, controlled human studies are limited. Calcium is essential for the development of the fetal skeleton, and silicon is involved in connective tissue formation. However, excessive intake must be avoided to prevent maternal hypercalcemia, which can lead to fetal hypocalcemia and parathyroid suppression in the newborn. Pregnant women should not exceed the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) of 2,500 mg of elemental calcium per day.
Calcium and silicate are natural components of breast milk. Supplementation with Calcium Silicate by the nursing mother is generally considered safe and does not adversely affect the infant, provided the mother's serum levels remain within the normal range. In fact, lactation significantly increases a mother's calcium requirement. However, if the mother develops hypercalcemia, the calcium content of the milk may increase, though the infant's own regulatory mechanisms usually compensate. Always consult a lactation consultant or pediatrician if you are taking high-dose mineral supplements while breastfeeding.
Calcium Silicate functions as a mineral-based modulator of the parathyroid-calcium axis. At the molecular level, the compound provides divalent calcium ions (Ca2+) which serve as ligands for the Calcium-Sensing Receptor (CaSR), a G protein-coupled receptor found on the surface of parathyroid chief cells. Activation of the CaSR inhibits the exocytosis of preformed Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and suppresses the transcription of the PTH gene. This reduces the systemic levels of PTH, which in turn decreases bone resorption by osteoclasts and reduces the renal conversion of Vitamin D to its active form (calcitriol).
Furthermore, the silicate component (SiO3 2-) provides silicon, which is thought to act as a cross-linking agent in the bone matrix. Silicon concentrates in the active growth areas of bone (the osteoid) and is essential for the activity of prolyl hydroxylase, an enzyme involved in the synthesis of collagen. By supporting both the mineral (calcium) and structural (collagen/silicon) components of bone, Calcium Silicate offers a comprehensive approach to skeletal health.
The pharmacodynamic effect of Calcium Silicate is characterized by a dose-dependent increase in serum ionized calcium and a corresponding decrease in serum PTH. The onset of action for PTH suppression is relatively rapid, occurring within 1 to 2 hours of absorption, while the structural benefits to bone mineral density require months of consistent therapy. Tolerance to the calcium-suppressive effects on PTH does not typically develop, but the body's homeostatic mechanisms (such as increased calcitonin secretion) will work to prevent excessive hypercalcemia in healthy individuals.
Common questions about Calcarea Silicata
Calcium Silicate is primarily used as a therapeutic mineral supplement to manage conditions related to calcium deficiency and parathyroid gland regulation. It provides a bioavailable source of both calcium and silicon, which are essential for maintaining bone mineral density and supporting the structural integrity of the bone matrix. Healthcare providers may prescribe it for patients with osteoporosis, hypocalcemia, or as part of a management plan for secondary hyperparathyroidism. Additionally, it is used in clinical settings to support connective tissue health and collagen synthesis. Because it belongs to the Parathyroid Hormone [EPC] class, its use is specifically targeted at balancing the hormonal feedback loop that controls mineral levels in the body.
The most frequently reported side effects of Calcium Silicate are gastrointestinal in nature, with constipation being the most prevalent. Many patients also experience abdominal bloating, gas (flatulence), and a general feeling of fullness or stomach upset. These effects occur because calcium can slow down the movement of the digestive tract. To manage these symptoms, healthcare providers often recommend increasing fluid intake and dietary fiber, or dividing the daily dose into smaller increments. While these common side effects are usually not serious, they can be bothersome and should be discussed with a doctor if they persist or worsen over time.
There is no known direct chemical interaction between alcohol and Calcium Silicate that would cause immediate danger. However, chronic or excessive alcohol consumption is generally discouraged while taking this medication because alcohol can interfere with the body's ability to absorb calcium and maintain healthy bone metabolism. Alcohol also acts as a diuretic, which can lead to dehydration and increase the risk of developing kidney stones—a known risk associated with calcium supplementation. For the best therapeutic results, it is advisable to limit alcohol intake and ensure you are staying well-hydrated. Always discuss your lifestyle habits with your healthcare provider to ensure the supplement is working effectively.
Calcium Silicate is generally considered safe and often beneficial during pregnancy, as the demand for calcium increases significantly to support the development of the fetal skeleton. However, it must be used under strict medical supervision to ensure that the mother does not exceed the recommended daily limits for calcium intake. Excessive calcium levels in a pregnant woman can lead to complications such as maternal kidney stones or neonatal parathyroid problems. Your doctor will likely monitor your blood levels and coordinate the use of Calcium Silicate with your prenatal vitamins. It is essential to follow the specific dosage prescribed by your obstetrician to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing baby.
The time it takes for Calcium Silicate to work depends on the specific therapeutic goal. For the suppression of parathyroid hormone (PTH) or the correction of blood calcium levels, the effects can be seen within 1 to 3 hours after the dose is absorbed into the bloodstream. However, for long-term goals like increasing bone mineral density or treating osteoporosis, it may take 6 to 12 months of consistent use before measurable changes are seen on a bone density (DEXA) scan. Because bone remodeling is a slow physiological process, patience and adherence to the prescribed regimen are crucial. Your healthcare provider will use periodic blood tests and imaging to track your progress over time.
You should not stop taking Calcium Silicate suddenly without first consulting your healthcare provider, especially if it was prescribed for a medical condition like hyperparathyroidism or chronic hypocalcemia. Abruptly stopping the medication can cause a 'rebound' effect where your parathyroid hormone levels spike or your blood calcium levels drop dangerously low. This can lead to symptoms like muscle cramps, tingling in the extremities, or even heart rhythm issues. If you need to discontinue the medication, your doctor will typically guide you through a tapering process and monitor your mineral levels closely to ensure your body remains in balance. Always seek medical advice before making changes to your supplement routine.
If you miss a dose of Calcium Silicate, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. You should never take two doses at the same time to 'catch up,' as this can lead to an excessive amount of calcium in your system at once, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal distress and hypercalcemia. Consistency is important for maintaining stable mineral levels, so try to take your medication at the same time each day. If you frequently miss doses, consider using a pill organizer or setting a reminder on your phone to help you stay on track.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that Calcium Silicate causes weight gain. As a mineral supplement, it does not contain calories or affect the metabolic processes typically associated with fat storage or appetite stimulation. Some patients might experience mild abdominal bloating or constipation, which can cause a temporary feeling of 'heaviness' or a slight increase in waist circumference, but this is not actual weight gain in the form of fat or muscle. In fact, some studies suggest that maintaining adequate calcium levels may play a supportive role in healthy weight management, although it is not a weight-loss drug. If you notice significant or rapid weight changes, you should contact your doctor to investigate other potential causes.
Calcium Silicate can interact with many other medications, so it is vital to coordinate its use with your healthcare provider. It can bind to certain drugs in the stomach—such as quinolone and tetracycline antibiotics, thyroid medications (levothyroxine), and bisphosphonates—preventing them from being absorbed properly. To avoid this, you generally need to separate the timing of these medications by several hours. Additionally, certain diuretics and heart medications like digoxin can have dangerous interactions with calcium. Always provide your doctor and pharmacist with a complete list of all the prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements you are taking to ensure a safe and effective treatment plan.
Yes, Calcium Silicate is widely available in generic formulations, often labeled simply as 'Calcium Silicate' or included as a component of 'Calcium with Minerals' complexes. Because it is a mineral compound rather than a complex synthetic molecule, generic versions are generally considered to be bioequivalent to brand-name versions. Choosing a generic can be a cost-effective way to manage long-term mineral therapy. However, when purchasing generic supplements, it is important to ensure they are produced by a reputable manufacturer that follows Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Your pharmacist can help you select a high-quality generic version that meets the specific dosage requirements set by your healthcare provider.
Other drugs with the same active ingredient (Calcium Silicate)
Rarely, Calcium Silicate can lead to Milk-Alkali Syndrome, characterized by high blood calcium, metabolic alkalosis, and renal failure. This is typically only seen with very high doses taken alongside alkaline substances (like antacids). Other rare effects include hypophosphatemia (low phosphate levels), as calcium can bind to phosphate in the gut and prevent its absorption. Some patients may report skin rashes or itching, which could indicate a mild hypersensitivity reaction to the silicate component or other ingredients in the formulation.
> Warning: Stop taking Calcium Silicate and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious symptoms:
Prolonged use of high-dose Calcium Silicate carries risks that must be managed through clinical oversight. One significant concern is vascular calcification, where calcium deposits begin to form in the walls of the arteries, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. This is particularly a concern in patients with underlying renal disease. Additionally, long-term over-supplementation can lead to suppression of the parathyroid glands beyond the therapeutic goal, potentially resulting in 'adynamic bone disease,' a state where bone turnover becomes abnormally low, making the bones more brittle over time.
At present, there are no FDA Black Box Warnings specifically for Calcium Silicate. However, it is vital to adhere to the general warnings associated with calcium-based parathyroid modulators regarding the risk of hypercalcemia in susceptible populations. The absence of a black box warning does not imply that the medication is without risk; it simply means that the most severe, life-threatening risks are generally manageable through proper dosing and monitoring.
Report any unusual symptoms, even those not listed here, to your healthcare provider. Monitoring your body's response is a key part of ensuring the safety of mineral therapy.
Regular laboratory monitoring is essential for anyone on long-term Calcium Silicate therapy. Your healthcare provider will typically order the following tests:
Calcium Silicate does not typically cause drowsiness or impairment of cognitive or motor functions. However, if you experience symptoms of hypercalcemia, such as confusion or extreme fatigue, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your mineral levels are stabilized and your symptoms resolve.
There is no direct chemical interaction between alcohol and Calcium Silicate. However, chronic excessive alcohol consumption can interfere with calcium absorption and bone metabolism, potentially negating the benefits of the supplement. Additionally, alcohol can contribute to dehydration, which increases the risk of kidney stones when taking mineral supplements.
Do not stop taking Calcium Silicate abruptly if it was prescribed for a specific medical condition like hypocalcemia or hyperparathyroidism. Sudden discontinuation can lead to a 'rebound' increase in PTH levels or a dangerous drop in serum calcium. If the medication needs to be stopped, your doctor will provide a tapering schedule and monitor your blood levels closely during the transition.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially any history of kidney stones or parathyroid disorders, with your healthcare provider before starting Calcium Silicate.
Calcium Silicate can affect the results of several laboratory tests:
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. A comprehensive 'brown bag' review of your supplements is highly recommended.
Conditions requiring a careful risk-benefit analysis by a healthcare professional include:
While Calcium Silicate is unique, patients who have had adverse reactions to other calcium salts (like calcium carbonate) or silicon-based medical devices (like certain implants) should be monitored for cross-sensitivity. Although the mechanisms of allergy differ, a generalized sensitivity to mineral-heavy formulations may exist in rare individuals.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including recent blood work, before prescribing Calcium Silicate to ensure none of these contraindications apply to you.
As discussed in the dosage section, Calcium Silicate is not the first-line choice for pediatric calcium supplementation unless specifically indicated for its silicate content. The safety and efficacy in children under the age of 4 have not been established. In older children, it must be used cautiously to avoid premature epiphyseal closure (halting of bone growth) which can occur if mineral levels are chronically imbalanced. Growth monitoring is recommended for any child on long-term mineral therapy.
Elderly patients are the primary demographic for Calcium Silicate due to the prevalence of osteoporosis and age-related parathyroid changes. However, this population is also at the highest risk for side effects. Reduced renal clearance in the elderly means that silicate and calcium can accumulate more easily. Furthermore, the higher incidence of polypharmacy (taking multiple medications) increases the likelihood of drug-drug interactions. Geriatric patients should start at the lower end of the dosing range, and healthcare providers should prioritize monitoring for constipation and kidney stones.
In patients with mild to moderate renal impairment (Stage 2 or 3 Chronic Kidney Disease), Calcium Silicate must be dosed with extreme precision. The kidneys' ability to maintain the balance between calcium and phosphorus is compromised, and Calcium Silicate can inadvertently contribute to 'metastatic calcification' (calcium deposits in soft tissues). For patients on dialysis, Calcium Silicate is generally avoided in favor of specific phosphate binders that do not contain calcium, unless the patient is specifically hypocalcemic.
No specific adjustments are required for patients with liver disease, but these patients should be monitored for vitamin D deficiency. Since Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of the calcium provided by Calcium Silicate, untreated liver disease can render the supplement ineffective.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment. Never share your medication with others, especially those in these sensitive categories.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | 25% - 35% (Variable based on gastric pH) |
| Protein Binding | 40% (Primarily to Albumin) |
| Half-life | Systemic ions: N/A (Regulated by homeostasis) |
| Tmax | 1 - 3 hours |
| Metabolism | None (Ionic dissociation) |
| Excretion | Renal (approx. 20%), Fecal (approx. 80%) |
Calcium Silicate exists in several forms, most commonly as Ca2SiO4 (Dicalcium Silicate) or CaSiO3 (Calcium Metasilicate). It is a white to off-white, odorless, and tasteless powder. It is practically insoluble in water and ethanol but dissolves readily in dilute hydrochloric acid (such as stomach acid). The molecular weight of CaSiO3 is approximately 116.16 g/mol. Its structure consists of a repeating tetrahedral arrangement of silicate anions coordinated with calcium cations.
Calcium Silicate is categorized within the Parathyroid Hormone [EPC] class. It is related to other calcium-based parathyroid modulators such as calcium carbonate, calcium acetate, and calcium gluconate, but is distinguished by the inclusion of the silicate moiety, which provides additional structural support to the bone matrix.