Medical products containing calcite, or calcium carbonate, treat digestion problems such as heartburn.
Calcite is crystallized calcium carbonate, a stable substance and one of the most abundant minerals on Earth. The abundance of calcite and its stability make it one of the most-used natural substances in many industries, including construction, agriculture, photography, jewelry-making, food production, chalk and pharmaceuticals. Medical products made from calcite consist of vitamins, supplements and drugs sold over the counter and prescribed by doctors. These products, taken orally, come in tablet, chewable and liquid forms.
Medical Products
Products used to treat calcium deficiencies contain calcite. Calcium protects the bones, cardiovascular system, muscles and nervous system, according to MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Other products containing calcite include medications taken for minor digestive problems because of calcite's ability to neutralize acids. Digestive problems treated by calcite-containing supplements are heartburn, indigestion and stomach acid buildup. Name-brand products including Maalox, Tums, Caltrate 600, Rolaids and Alka-Mints contain calcium carbonate.
Usage Instructions
Like all medications, patients taking products with calcite should follow packaging instructions or dosage recommendations provided by their doctors. MedlinePlus suggests taking them with food or after a meal to prevent upset stomach and chewing supplements thoroughly before swallowing. Patients should shake liquid before every use to ensure the chalky substance does not settle at the bottom of the container. MedlinePlus says antacids containing calcium carbonate should not be taken for more than two weeks unless doctors instruct otherwise. KidsHealth says to wait two hours before taking iron, zinc and folic acid when taking calcite.
Side Effects
Side effects range from minor discomforts such as stomach aches, belching and frequent urination, to more serious problems such as vomiting and constipation, says MedlinePlus. Antacids containing calcium components sometimes cause kidney stones. KidsHealth states that patients counteract constipation by drinking more fluids, consuming more fiber-rich foods and exercising. Before taking stool softeners or laxatives or giving them to their children, individuals should speak with their doctors or pharmacists. Eating small meals and sucking hard, sugar-free candy offsets the effects of nausea and vomiting.
Special Considerations
Some people have allergic reactions to products containing calcium carbonate, or calcite. KidsHealth says parents should contact doctors or emergency services if their children experience wheezing, breathing difficulties, itching, rashes, discolored skin and swelling of the throat, tongue, lips and face. Adults should tell their doctors about allergic reactions to calcite, other medications and supplements they take, history of kidney and stomach problems, and if they are pregnant or nursing, according to MedlinePlus. Calcium carbonate should be discarded when it's out of date or no longer needed.
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