| Common Brands | Calphosan, Bone-Up, TriCal |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Mineral Supplement |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Over the counter (OTC) |
It serves biological purposes in the human body, but tricalcium phosphate also has a wide application for manufacturing food products, dietary supplements, and even its medical treatment, such as bone health and restoration. In terms of dietary supplementation.
it is used for maintaining bone health and supporting calcium levels in the human body, while its industrial uses include its role as a food additive and as part of some medical devices, including bone grafts.
Calcium phosphate, tribasic is used widely in dietary supplements, food products, and some pharmaceutical formulations. Among the key applications and their use are:
The role of Calcium phosphate as Dietary Supplement: Calcium phosphate may be found in tablet and capsule forms. It usually is used to prevent and sometimes treat calcium and phosphate deficiency where individuals have insufficient dietary intakes or conditions that lead to problems in bone mineralization, such as osteoporosis or osteomalacia. Dosage will differ depending on the age of the individual, his/her condition, and the diet to be followed. A healthcare provider may prescribe or recommend specific doses.
Food Additives: Calcium phosphate, tribasic is used as a food additive to fortify food products with calcium. It is often found in dairy products, breakfast cereals, and other fortified foods. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when used in appropriate amounts.
Tricalcium phosphate, like other calcium salts, is essential in maintaining balance in the body. Calcium phosphate, in the digestive system, dissociates into calcium (Ca²⁺) and phosphate (PO₄³⁻) ions from the gut lumen to be absorbed into the blood. Calcium, in its ionic form, here performs several vital physiological activities.
Bone Health: The calcium ions are transported to the bones and teeth, where they help maintain bone density and strength. Calcium phosphate contributes to the formation and maintenance of hydroxyapatite, the mineralized component of bone and teeth.
Muscle Function: Calcium is needed for muscle contraction. Calcium ions released from the bones or absorbed from the bloodstream bind to proteins in muscle cells, enabling them to contract and relax properly.
Cellular Processes: Many cellular processes rely on calcium ions, such as the activation of enzymes, transmission across nerve cells, and the process of blood clotting.
It plays a role in these functions by offering an easily absorbed and bioavailable source of both calcium and phosphate.
Despite the fact that calcium phosphate, tribasic is known to be nontoxic when used at the correct dosage, its excessive use has been seen to cause certain side effects in some cases:
Gastrointestinal Complaints: Some people may suffer from gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating, constipation, or nausea when they are on calcium supplements. This can be minimized by taking calcium phosphate with food and drinking plenty of water.
Hypercalcemia: Over-consumption of calcium leads to hypercalcemia, characterized by excessive calcium levels in the blood. Hypercalcemia is associated with a range of symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, kidney stones, and irregular heart rhythms. The patient must adhere to the recommended dosages and consult a physician before using calcium supplements.
Kidney Stones: Repeatedly high calcium consumption increases the likelihood of developing stones in the kidneys, more so for those with predispositions to stone formation.
Kidney Disease: Patients with kidney disease should exercise caution in the use of calcium phosphate supplements because impaired kidney function impairs the body’s ability to regulate calcium levels. This may lead to a higher risk of hypercalcemia.
Heart Disease: High levels of calcium can interfere with heart function, especially in patients with heart disease or arrhythmias. A healthcare provider should be consulted before taking calcium supplements in such cases.
Pregnancy and Lactation: Calcium phosphate supplements are relatively safe during pregnancy and lactation, although dosing should be appropriately followed. Pregnant and lactating women should discuss their supplementation with their doctor before initiation.
Too Much Calcium: Avoid exceeding the recommended intake of calcium per day; this varies among adults but ranges from 1,000 mg to 1,200 mg. Hypercalcemia and kidney stones are a few adverse effects of excess calcium intake.
Antibiotics:
Calcium phosphate can interfere with the absorption of certain antibiotics, particularly tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline) and quinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin). Calcium can bind to these antibiotics in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing their absorption and effectiveness. It’s recommended to space out the doses of calcium supplements and antibiotics by at least 2-4 hours.
Thyroid Medications:
Calcium phosphate can decrease the absorption of thyroid medications, such as levothyroxine, if taken together. To avoid interactions, it’s advised to take thyroid medications on an empty stomach and calcium supplements a few hours later.
Iron Supplements:
Like other forms of calcium, calcium phosphate can interfere with the absorption of iron supplements, potentially decreasing their effectiveness. To avoid this interaction, iron and calcium should be taken at different times of the day.
Diuretics (Thiazides):
Thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide) may increase calcium levels in the blood by reducing calcium excretion. If combined with calcium phosphate, this can increase the risk of hypercalcemia (high calcium levels), which can lead to kidney stones or other complications. Monitoring calcium levels is important when using both.
There are various recommended calcium daily intake according to age, gender, and life cycle. In adults, general requirements of about 1,000 to 1,200 mg/day apply, but exceptions vary by individual medical necessity.
The dosage for calcium phosphate supplements will depend on the concentration of the product and individual health needs. The manufacturer’s instructions should be followed, and a healthcare provider should be consulted for specific advice. Calcium phosphate supplements are usually dosed to provide about 500 mg of calcium per dose, so multiple doses may be necessary to meet daily calcium needs.
Calcium phosphate, tribasic is available over-the-counter (OTC) as a dietary supplement and does not usually require a prescription. However, individuals with specific medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, calcium deficiency, or bone health concerns, may require a higher dosage or a prescription-strength supplement.
It is always advisable to consult a healthcare provider before starting calcium phosphate supplementation, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications.
Calcium phosphate, tribasic is a calcium salt of phosphoric acid commonly used as a dietary supplement and food additive.
It is used to supplement calcium and phosphorus in the diet, support bone health, and act as a food additive.
Tribasic calcium phosphate provides both calcium and phosphate, which are essential for bone formation, whereas other supplements may provide only calcium.
Individuals who need extra calcium and phosphorus, such as those with osteoporosis or certain dietary restrictions, may benefit.
Dosages vary based on individual needs but often range from 500 mg to 1,500 mg daily, depending on dietary intake.
Potential side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, constipation, and, in rare cases, hypercalcemia.
Yes, it is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.
It is typically taken orally in tablet or powder form, often mixed with food or beverages.
Yes, calcium phosphate, tribasic is generally considered suitable for both vegetarians and vegans, as it is not derived from animal sources.
Yes, adequate calcium and phosphorus intake, including from calcium phosphate, can support bone density and help prevent osteoporosis.
Yes, it may interact with certain medications, including some antibiotics and medications for heart conditions. Consulting a healthcare provider is advised.
Yes, it can help correct deficiencies when taken as directed.
It is usually best taken with food to enhance absorption and minimize gastrointestinal discomfort.
Users should monitor calcium and phosphorus levels and be aware of symptoms of hypercalcemia.
Individuals with hypercalcemia, kidney disease, or certain metabolic disorders should avoid using it and consult a healthcare provider.
Yes, children can take it, but dosages should be adjusted according to pediatric guidelines, and a pediatrician’s advice is recommended.
Yes, calcium plays a vital role in muscle contraction, so adequate intake supports muscle function.
Excess intake can lead to hypercalcemia and phosphate imbalance, resulting in nausea, vomiting, and confusion.
It should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and out of reach of children.
When taken as directed, calcium phosphate, tribasic is generally considered safe for most individuals, but it’s important to follow healthcare provider guidance.
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