Are there any side effects of calcium citrate?

In terms of taking calcium supplements, calcium citrate is recommended if you’re at all sensitive to other types. But are there any side effects of calcium citrate? Yes, like with any type of medication, there are side effects, and it’s always worth noting them down if you decide to start taking them.

Thanks to drugs.com who have provided us with a comprehensive must-read sheet before you do – here’s a guide of everything you need to know, including any side effects, about calcium citrate.

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 citrate is used to prevent and to treat calcium deficiencies.

Do not take calcium citrate 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.

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 citrate, or you may need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.

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

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

All this information applies to calcium citrate as an oral tablet, oral tablet effervescent.

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

Less serious side effects of calcium citrate may include:

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

Calcium citrate 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).