Calcium gluconate (Injection)

Introduction

Calcium Gluconate (kal-cee-um gloo-koe-nate)

Treats calcium deficiency (too little calcium in the blood). Also treats black widow spider bites, lead colic, overdose of magnesium or certain heart medicines, and a condition called rickets. This medicine is also used in life support and life-threatening heart conditions.

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have high levels of calcium in your blood.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it will be given. This medicine is given as a shot into a vein. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using digoxin (Lanoxin®) or tetracycline.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease or are on dialysis.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Feeling of warmth, tingling, or confusion
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Slow or irregular heartbeat

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dry mouth, thirst, chalky taste in your mouth
• Constipation, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
• Increase in how much or how often you urinate
• Redness, swelling, irritation, or infection on the skin where the injection is given