Calcium carbonate

Generic Name

Calcium carbonate

Trade Name

Tums / Rolaids

Indication

treatment of hypocalcemia, prevention of post menopausal osteoporosis, treatment of hypokalemia and hypomagnesaemia, adjunct in cardiac arrest, used as antacid

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

monitor hemodynamics

may causes hypotension, bradycardia, and arrhythmias

hypercalcemia can increase risk for digoxin toxicity

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

monitor parathyroid hormone