Brookshire Cypress Fulshear Jersey Village Katy Tomball Richmond
1.9K Reviews    |   
4.7 Star Rating    |    20+ years of experience    |    75k+ Patients Treated
Call
Add as preferred source

Tums - Calcium carbonate

Bharat Pothuri Medically Reviewed by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG
Brand Name
Tums
Generic Name
Calcium carbonate
Drug Class
Antacids, Minerals and electrolytes
Availability
Prescription only
Manufacturer
GlaxoSmithKline
Indications
Tums is used to prevent or to treat a calcium deficiency.
Type
Tablet
Doses
500mg
Route
Oral
Side Effects
Hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Interactions
Calcium can make it harder for your body to absorb certain medicines. If you take other medications, take them at least 2 hours before or 4 or 6 hours after you take Tums.
Overdose
Your Tums dose may need to be adjusted as you make changes to your diet.
Missed Dose
Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Contraindications
kidney disease;kidney stones;cancer;a parathyroid gland disorder; or high levels of calcium in your blood.
Alternatives
Caltrate, Tums Extra Strength 750, Tums Chewy Bites, Tums Ultra 1000
Co-Pay Assistance Program
Available
Patient Assistance Program
Available

Frequently Asked Questions

Calcium Carbonate How do I use Calcium Carbonate?

Calcium carbonate is employed to deal with calcium deficiencies, osteoporosis, acid indigestion, and heartburn, by supplying calcium in the body and also neutralizing stomach acid.

Mechanism of Action of Calcium Carbonate?

Calcium carbonate acts by antagonizing excessive stomach acid and supplying calcium to the body that is required to keep bones strong and muscles in proper functioning.

What are the most prevalent side effects of Calcium Carbonate?

Some frequent side effects are constipation, bloating and gas. With large dosage, there can be kidney stones or hypercalcemia (high level of calcium).

The use Calcium Carbonate What is the way to take it?

Calcium carbonate is normally administered by mouth either in form of tablet or chewable, along with meal or without meal. Depending on the amount of the calcium requirement, your healthcare provider will prescribe the right dosage.

The safety of Calcium Carbonate in pregnancy?

Calcium carbonate does not pose much threat during pregnancy. Never start taking any type of supplement during pregnancy though, and in this case, check with your healthcare provider first.

But what should I do in case I skip the dose of Calcium Carbonate?

In case of any omission of a dose, take it immediately that you remember unless you are nearly due to take the next dose. Do not take two doses at once.

Does Calcium Carbonate lead to kidney stones?

Overuse of Calcium Carbonate may result in kidney stones, particularly in individuals who have been having problems related to kidney problems. The recommended dosage should be observed, and one needs to be hydrated.

Does Calcium Carbonate have any interaction with other drugs?

Yes Calcium Carbonate may cause interactions with various medications such as antibiotics and thyroid medication. Never forget to notify your health provider of all the medicines you are taking.

What is the duration of action of the Calcium Carbonate in treating heartburn?

Calcium carbonate is usually well known to relieve heartburn as well as indigestion, usually within a few minutes of use.

What is the effectiveness of Calcium Carbonate in the treatment of osteoporosis?

Calcium carbonate is also used to prevent and treat osteoporosis by maintaining adequate levels of calcium although this treatment should go hand in hand with other interventions such as vitamin D and exercises to maintain optimal bone health.