ORCAL

# Calcium Carbonate (Organic Source – Oyster Shell) 1250 mg + Vitamin D3 250 IU ## SHORT DESCRIPTION Calcium Carbonate 1250 mg from an oyster shell source combined with Vitamin D3 250 IU is a **calcium and vitamin D supplement** intended to support bone health and normal calcium metabolism. Calcium is an essential mineral required for maintaining bones and teeth, while Vitamin D3 helps the body absorb calcium from the digestive tract. **Important:** Calcium carbonate 1250 mg provides approximately **500 mg of elemental calcium**, although the exact elemental calcium content should be confirmed from the product label. ## KEY BENEFITS * Supports **strong and healthy bones** * Helps maintain normal calcium levels in the body * Supports healthy teeth * Vitamin D3 helps improve calcium absorption * Supports normal muscle function * Supports normal nerve function * Helps provide nutritional support when dietary calcium intake is inadequate ## USES / INDICATIONS This supplement may be used for: * Calcium supplementation * Vitamin D supplementation * Supporting bone health * Supporting normal bone mineralization * Dietary calcium deficiency * Increased calcium requirements when recommended by a healthcare professional * Nutritional support for people at risk of inadequate calcium intake It may be recommended as part of nutritional management for individuals with increased risk of bone loss, depending on their overall diet and medical needs. ## HOW IT WORKS **Calcium Carbonate:** Provides calcium, an essential mineral needed for the development and maintenance of bones and teeth. Calcium also plays an important role in normal muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and blood clotting. **Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol):** Helps the intestines absorb calcium and phosphate efficiently. Adequate Vitamin D supports normal bone mineralization and helps maintain calcium balance in the body. Calcium carbonate is generally better absorbed when taken **with food**, because stomach acid helps dissolve the calcium salt. ## DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION * Take this supplement exactly according to the product label or your healthcare professional's recommendation. * Calcium carbonate is generally best taken **with meals**. * Swallow the tablet with sufficient water unless the product is specifically designed to be chewed or dissolved. * Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. * If taking other calcium or vitamin D supplements, check the total daily intake to avoid excessive supplementation. * The appropriate dose depends on dietary intake, age, nutritional requirements, and individual medical conditions. **Note:** The amount of elemental calcium is more clinically relevant than the total calcium carbonate weight. Calcium carbonate 1250 mg typically provides approximately **500 mg elemental calcium**. ## SIDE EFFECTS Calcium and Vitamin D supplements are generally well tolerated when taken at recommended doses. Possible side effects include: * Constipation * Bloating * Gas * Stomach discomfort * Nausea * Abdominal discomfort Excessive calcium or Vitamin D intake may cause: * High blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia) * Excessive thirst * Frequent urination * Nausea or vomiting * Confusion or weakness * Kidney stones Seek medical advice if severe or persistent symptoms occur. ## PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS * Do not exceed the recommended dose without medical advice. * Inform your doctor if you have **kidney disease, kidney stones, high blood calcium levels, or parathyroid disorders**. * People with a history of calcium-containing kidney stones should consult a healthcare professional before supplementation. * Long-term or high-dose supplementation should be medically supervised when appropriate. * If you have a condition that causes excessive calcium absorption or elevated Vitamin D levels, seek medical advice before use. * Keep supplements away from children. * Oyster shell-derived calcium may be unsuitable for individuals with certain **shellfish allergies**; check the product labeling and consult a healthcare professional if you have a relevant allergy. * Calcium supplements should complement a balanced diet and should not be considered a substitute for calcium-rich foods. ## DRUG INTERACTIONS Calcium can interfere with the absorption of several medicines. Important interactions include: * **Levothyroxine:** Calcium can reduce its absorption. These medicines should generally be separated by several hours according to medical advice. * **Tetracycline antibiotics:** Calcium can reduce absorption of medicines such as doxycycline and tetracycline. * **Quinolone antibiotics:** Calcium can reduce absorption of medicines such as ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin. * **Bisphosphonates:** Calcium can reduce absorption of oral bisphosphonates. * **Iron supplements:** Calcium may reduce iron absorption when taken together. * **Certain anticonvulsants:** Some medicines may affect Vitamin D metabolism. * **Thiazide diuretics:** May increase the risk of elevated blood calcium levels when combined with calcium supplements. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, OTC medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take. ## STORAGE INFORMATION * Store at room temperature according to the manufacturer's instructions. * Keep away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. * Keep the container tightly closed. * Keep in the original packaging. * Keep out of reach and sight of children. * Do not use after the expiry date. * Avoid storing in areas with excessive humidity, such as bathrooms. ## PRESCRIPTION STATUS **Usually available as a dietary/nutritional supplement without a prescription**, depending on local regulations and the specific product. Although it may be available without a prescription, people with kidney disease, kidney stones, high calcium levels, or those taking multiple medicines should consult a healthcare professional before use. ## GENUINE MEDICINE ASSURANCE Purchase Calcium Carbonate + Vitamin D3 supplements only from a **licensed and reputable pharmacy or authorized retailer**. Before use, check: * Product name and ingredients * Strength and nutritional information * Manufacturer details * Batch or lot number * Expiry date * Packaging and seal Do not use products with damaged, altered, opened, or suspicious packaging. ## FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions ### What is Calcium Carbonate 1250 mg + Vitamin D3 250 IU used for? It is a calcium and Vitamin D supplement used to support **bone health, calcium levels, normal bone mineralization, and calcium absorption** when dietary intake may be insufficient. ### How much elemental calcium is in Calcium Carbonate 1250 mg? Calcium carbonate contains approximately **40% elemental calcium**. Therefore, 1250 mg of calcium carbonate typically provides about **500 mg of elemental calcium**. ### Why is Vitamin D3 added to calcium supplements? Vitamin D3 helps the body absorb calcium from the intestine and supports normal calcium and phosphate metabolism, making it an important nutrient for maintaining healthy bones. ### Is calcium carbonate better taken with food? Yes. Calcium carbonate is generally absorbed better when taken **with food**, because stomach acid helps dissolve the calcium carbonate. ### Can calcium supplements strengthen bones? Adequate calcium and Vitamin D are important for maintaining normal bone health. However, supplementation is most beneficial when dietary intake is insufficient or when supplementation is medically recommended. ### Can Calcium Carbonate + Vitamin D3 prevent osteoporosis? Adequate calcium and Vitamin D intake supports bone health and may form part of an osteoporosis prevention or treatment plan. However, this supplement alone does not necessarily prevent or treat osteoporosis. ### Can I take calcium and Vitamin D3 every day? It can be taken daily when appropriate, but the correct amount depends on your dietary intake, age, health status, and other supplements or medicines. Do not exceed the recommended dose without medical advice. ### Can calcium supplements cause constipation? Yes. **Constipation is a relatively common side effect** of calcium supplements, particularly at higher doses. Adequate fluids and dietary fiber may help. ### Can calcium supplements cause kidney stones? High calcium intake from supplements may increase kidney stone risk in some people, particularly those with a history of kidney stones. Discuss supplementation with your doctor if you have previously had kidney stones. ### Can I take calcium with levothyroxine? Calcium can interfere with levothyroxine absorption. These medicines should generally be taken at **separate times**, according to your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions. ### Can I take calcium with antibiotics? Some antibiotics, particularly tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones, can interact with calcium and have reduced absorption. Your pharmacist or doctor can advise you on the appropriate separation between doses. ### Is oyster shell calcium suitable for people with shellfish allergies? Oyster shell-derived calcium may not be appropriate for everyone with shellfish allergies. Check the manufacturer's allergen information and consult your healthcare professional if you have a known shellfish allergy. ### Can pregnant women take Calcium Carbonate + Vitamin D3? Calcium and Vitamin D are important during pregnancy, but supplementation should be based on individual nutritional requirements and medical advice. Do not exceed recommended amounts. ### Can I take calcium while breastfeeding? Calcium is an important nutrient during breastfeeding. Whether supplementation is necessary depends on dietary intake and individual requirements. Consult a healthcare professional if you are unsure. ### What happens if I take too much calcium and Vitamin D? Excessive intake can lead to **high blood calcium levels**, which may cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, excessive thirst, frequent urination, weakness, confusion, or kidney problems. Seek medical advice if excessive intake is suspected. ## MEDICAL DISCLAIMER This information is provided for **general educational and informational purposes only** and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Calcium and Vitamin D requirements vary according to age, diet, health status, and individual circumstances. The exact elemental calcium content and recommended serving size should be confirmed from the product label. Consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before using supplements, particularly if you have kidney disease, kidney stones, high calcium levels, or are taking other medicines.