Elemental Calcium + Folic Acid + Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)

Dosage Forms Available

• Elemental Calcium + Folic Acid + Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) is available for oral use in the following forms: tablets, capsules, and chewable tablets.
• It can also be found as effervescent tablets that dissolve in water for oral consumption.
• This combination is also available in the form of liquid drops or suspensions.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This combination of Elemental Calcium + Folic Acid + Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) is suitable for adults and children, considering their nutritional needs.
• The dosage and administration should be as advised by the doctor, considering the age, sex, and life stage of the individual.

Contraindications

• This combination should not be used by individuals with hypercalcemia (abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood), kidney stones or kidney disease as it could aggravate their symptoms.
• People suffering from sarcoidosis or other granulomatous diseases should exercise caution while using this combination.
• It is not recommended for individuals with malabsorption syndromes, facing difficulty absorbing nutrients from their diet.

Other Medications to Avoid

• The Elemental Calcium + Folic Acid + Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) combination may interact with antibiotics (like tetracyclines and quinolones), anticonvulsants (like phenytoin and phenobarbital), cholesterol-lowering medications (like bile acid sequestrants), and diuretics (like thiazides).
• Always consult a doctor before starting any new medication to avoid potential interactions.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdosing on this combination could lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, headache, and rarely, skin rash or itching. If these symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
• If you miss a dose of this combination, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not double your dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Drinking plenty of water may help manage the side effect of constipation caused by this combination.
• Try taking the medication with meals to decrease gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Resting or lying down may alleviate headaches.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Elemental Calcium + Folic Acid + Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) does not have any known effects on the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, it is always advisable to avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel drowsy or dizzy after taking any medication.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Elemental Calcium + Folic Acid + Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) can be used during pregnancy and lactation as directed by a doctor. Folic acid is particularly beneficial during pregnancy for proper fetal development.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Individuals with a history of kidney disease need to exercise caution while taking Elemental Calcium + Folic Acid + Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) due to the presence of elemental calcium which could exacerbate their condition.
• Patients with malabsorption syndromes should also proceed with caution, as they may struggle to absorb these nutrients effectively.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintain a balanced diet that includes foods rich in calcium, folic acid, and vitamin D3. This includes dairy products, leafy greens, fortified foods, citrus fruits, beans, fatty fish, and egg yolks.
• Ensure adequate exposure to sunlight to enhance vitamin D3 synthesis in your body.
• Regular health checks can help monitor nutrient levels and adjust the dosage of this combination as necessary.
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption as they can interfere with the absorption of these essential nutrients.