calcium carbonate
Calcium carbonate is a dietary supplement used when the amount of calcium taken in the diet is not enough. Calcium is needed by the body for healthy bones, muscles, nervous system, and heart. Calcium carbonate also is used as an antacid to relieve heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach. It is available with or without a prescription. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Decisions about medication use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking calcium carbonate affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
When calcium carbonate is used as directed and within the recommended amounts, it is not expected to make it harder to get pregnant. Any specific concerns about fertility should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Does taking calcium carbonate increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons. The fact sheet notes that when calcium carbonate is used as directed and within the recommended amounts, it is not expected to increase the chance of miscarriage. Your healthcare provider can help address individual questions about pregnancy risks.
Does taking calcium carbonate increase the risk of birth defects?
About 3 out of 100 babies are born with a birth defect for various reasons. According to the fact sheet, when calcium carbonate is used as directed and within the recommended amounts, it is not expected to increase the chance of birth defects above the background risk. Discuss your specific situation with your healthcare provider.
Can taking calcium carbonate during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
The fact sheet states that when used as directed and within recommended amounts, calcium carbonate is not expected to increase the chance of problems like preterm delivery or low birth weight. However, taking more than the recommended amount might increase the chance of low birth weight, and there have been case reports of newborn seizures with high doses near the end of pregnancy, as well as milk-alkali syndrome (high calcium levels that could lead to kidney failure or pancreatitis) in the pregnant person. Your healthcare provider can help determine the right amount of calcium for you.
Can taking calcium carbonate during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
According to the fact sheet, studies have not been done to see whether calcium carbonate can cause behavior or learning issues in the child. Questions about long-term child development are best discussed with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking calcium carbonate?
Calcium is naturally present in breastmilk. The fact sheet notes that when calcium carbonate is used as directed and within the recommended amounts, it is unlikely to be harmful to a nursing baby. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about any breastfeeding questions specific to your situation.
Source: National Library of Medicine
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