Calcium acetate

Generic Name

Calcium acetate

Trade Name              

PhosLo

Indication

treatment of hypocalcemia, prevention of post menopausal osteoporosis, treatment of hypokalemia and hypomagnesaemia, adjunct in cardiac arrest, control of hyperphosphatemia with ESRD

Action

calcium is essential for nervous muscular and skeletal systems, helps maintain cell membranes, aids in transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contraction, aids in blood formation and coagulation

Therapeutic Class

mineral and electrolyte replacements/supplements

Pharmacologic Class

antacids

Nursing Considerations

may cause cardiac arrest and arrhythmias

phlebitis at site of insertion

monitor hemodynamics

may causes hypotension, bradycardia, and arrhythmias

hypercalcemia can increase risk for digoxin toxicity

administer slowly

instruct pt on foods that contain Vitamin D and encourage adequate intake.

monitor parathyroid hormone