Calcium Gluconate (KAL-see-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:

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

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088