calcium lactate

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Pronunciation: KAL see um LAK tate

Brand: Ridactate

What is the most important information I should know about calcium lactate?

Do not take calcium lactate or antacids that contain calcium without first asking your doctor if you also take other medicines. Calcium can make it harder for your body to absorb certain medicines.

Calcium lactate works best if you take it with food.

What is calcium lactate?

Calcium is a mineral that is found naturally in foods. Calcium is necessary for many normal functions of your body, especially bone formation and maintenance. Calcium can also bind to other minerals (such as phosphate) and aid in their removal from the body.

Calcium lactate is used to prevent and to treat calcium deficiencies.

Calcium lactate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking calcium lactate?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have:

  • a history of kidney stones; or
  • a parathyroid gland disorder.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to take calcium lactate, or you may need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.

Talk to your doctor before taking calcium lactate if you are pregnant.

Talk to your doctor before taking calcium lactate if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take calcium lactate?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Calcium lactate works best if you take it with food.

Take calcium lactate with a full glass of water.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, constipation, confusion, delirium, stupor, and coma.

What should I avoid while taking calcium lactate?

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of calcium lactate?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects may include:

  • nausea or vomiting;
  • decreased appetite;
  • constipation;
  • dry mouth or increased thirst; or
  • increased urination.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect calcium lactate?

Calcium lactate can make it harder for your body to absorb other medications you take by mouth. Tell your doctor if you are taking:

  • digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps);
  • antacids or other calcium supplements;
  • calcitriol (Rocaltrol) or vitamin D supplements; or
  • doxycycline (Adoxa, Doryx, Oracea, Vibramycin), minocycline (Dynacin, Minocin, Solodyn, Vectrin), or tetracycline (Brodspec, Panmycin, Sumycin, Tetracap).

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with calcium lactate. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about calcium lactate.


Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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