What Is Calcium Acetate? - Calcium Acetate

Calcium acetate is a compound that could be a source of calcium carbonate and acetone. When heated above 160°C, calcium acetate is broken down into calcium carbonate and acetone, which is a hazardous vapor when released. It is a coarse, white powder with a slight acetic acid odor. Calcium acetate is water-soluble and its pH level is 7.

Uses of calcium acetate
In medicine, calcium acetate is used to treat hyperphosphatemia, a condition in which the phosphate level in the blood is very high than normal. In hyperphophatemia, calcium acetate binds with the phosphate in the blood and eliminates it as urine or stool. It's also used to treat kidney diseases as well as treat or prevent calcium deficiency.

Doctor's prescription is crucial in taking this drug and dosage may be adjusted if you currently have or a history of kidney stones, have parathyroid gland disease, are taking antacids and calcium supplements at the same time, are taking tetracycline antibiotics. Antacids usually contain aluminum, and the latter can decrease the effectiveness of many types of medicines by binding to them or changing the acidity level in the stomach and urine. Other medicines that may react to calcium acetate are digoxin, and calcitriol or vitamin D supplements.

Although there is no clear evidence, yet, as to the effects of calcium acetate on fetuses or breastfed infants, it is important to discuss with your doctor prior to taking this drug if your are pregnant or breastfeeding. Moreover, this medicine had been tested only on adult patients so that specific information of its effects on children has not been established yet.

Possible side effects of calcium acetate
Like any other medicines, taking calcium acetate should be ceased at once if you experience any allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, narrowing of the throat, full or partial loss of consciousness, incoherent speech, and swelling of the lips, tongue, or face, or hives.

For less serious reactions, you may continue taking calcium acetate provided that you also discuss them with your doctor. Other side effects may include itching, nausea or vomiting, constipation, drying of the mouth or increased thirst, loss of appetite, and increased urination. In cases of overdose, symptoms would vary from nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, confusion, delirium, stupor, and coma.

Like all other medicines, calcium acetate must be kept out of reach of children and containers need to be disposed of properly as they could contain residues.