CALCIUM ACETATE

In this session, we will be discussing the consumer medication information for calcium acetate, trade name PhosLo™ and others.

What it’s for & How to take

Calcium acetate is used in patients who have high phosphate levels with severe kidney disease. This medication helps clean your blood from extra phosphorous when your kidneys are not working properly. Calcium acetate helps keep calcium levels in your body normal.

Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you are prescribed this medication to treat something that is not listed here.

Calcium acetate is usually taken three times daily, with meals. While taking this medication, you may need to have regular blood tests. Your doctor may adjust your dose depending on your phosphorous levels and your response to treatment.

If you forget to take a dose, skip the missed dose unless you have just eaten. If it is near the time for your next dose, skip it and continue with your normal dose time. Do not take a double dose to make up the missed dose.

Warnings & Cautions

Do not use calcium acetate if you have high calcium levels in your body. Avoid calcium supplements unless your doctor tells you to take them.

Some antacids contain calcium. Do not use antacids without talking to your doctor first.

Let your pharmacist or doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before taking this medication.

Interactions & Side Effects

Tell your pharmacist or doctor all your medication allergies so they may determine if calcium acetate is safe for you to take.

Avoid dangerous drug interactions. Calcium acetate can make it harder for your body to absorb some of your other medications such as antibiotics, and thyroid medications. Tell your pharmacist or doctor all the other medication you are taking, including over the counter supplements, even if you don’t take them very often.

Ask your doctor if this medication is safe to take with your current health conditions. Tell your doctor if you have ever been told you have high calcium levels.

While taking calcium acetate, you may have some nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomach, abdominal pain, flatulence, and constipation. If these or any other unwanted side effects persist, contact your doctor or pharmacist to talk about it with them.

Call your doctor right away if you have any severe nausea, vomiting, constipation, increased thirst or urination, muscle weakness, bone pain, confusion, or significant tired feeling.

Call emergency 911 if you have any signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, and throat.

If you have any questions about what you have heard, contact your pharmacist or doctor. This session does not include all of the potential interactions or side effects that this medication may cause. Ask your pharmacist how to store your medication and how you should dispose of it when you are done taking it. Do not share your medication with anyone, ever. Remember, this is not meant to replace your counseling session with your pharmacist. In the case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

Updated 7/20