Algecal® D Tablet: Each tablet contains Calcium Carbonate (Algae source) USP 1250 mg equivalent to Calcium (Algae source) 500 mg & Cholecalciferol(Cone. Powder) BP 2.00 mg equivalent to Vitamin D₃ 200 IU BP.
Algecal® D is the combination of Ocean based Algae source Calcium & Vitamin D₃. Algae source Calcium is extracted from Algas Calcareas, a red Algae found in the shores of South America. Algae source Calcium ensures better absorption than Coral source Calcium or other Calcium Carbonate due to its fibrous chemical structure. Vitamin D₃ aids in the absorption of Calcium from GI tract & helps to maintain Calcium balance in the body.
Mode of action:
Calcium is absorbed in the intestine which then passes through the intestine to blood & deposited into bone. Active transport through cell is dependent on Vitamin D₃. Vitamin D₃ keeps bones healthy by increasing the absorption of Calcium in the intestines Without Vitamin D₃ body will be able to absorb only 10% to 15% of the Calcium from the diet.
Pharmacokinetics:
75% of Calcium form Algae source is absorbed in the intestine. In a USP dissolution test simulating stomach condition 97% of Calcium from Algae source goes into the solution. Vitamin D₃ binds with albumin & α-fetoprotein which increases the absorption of Calcium.
Algecal® D is indicated for the treatment & prevention of osteoporosis, osteomalacia, tetany, hypocalothyroidism & osteogenesis. It can also be used as supplement in case of inadequate intake of Calcium in childhood diet, pregnancy & lactation, rickets & poor absorption during old age. Other indications include pancreatitis & phosphate binder in chronic renal failure etc.
1 tablet once or twice daily with plenty of water or food as directed by the physician.
Major interaction:
Administering intravenous Ceftriaxone & Calcium can result in life-threatening damage to the lungs & kidneys. Calcium should not be administered intravenously within 48 hours of intravenous ceftriaxone.
Minor interaction:
Calcium can reduce the absorption of tetracycline & fluoride preparations and minimum 3 hours time should be allowed between ingestion of these medications. Triazole diuretics reduce the renal excretion of Calcium. Phenyltin, barbiturates & glucocorticoids may induce metabolism of Vitamin D₃. Intake of certain foods like spinach, cereals, milk and its derivatives may reduce the intestinal uptake of Calcium.
Algecal® D should be given to pregnant & lactating mothers as per recommendation of physician. Toxicity of Algecal® D was tested on pregnant & nursing females which result excellent.
In mild hypercalciuria reduction of dose is sufficient to return to normal serum Calcium concentration. Patients with kidney stone or with such previous history should be recommended to increase their fluid intake.
Keep out of reach of children. Store in a dry place, below 25°C temperature and protected from light.