BIOCAL-D 60TAB

Benefits & Uses

Primary Benefit

Supports bone strength and density by providing elemental calcium derived from calcium carbonate

Health Claims

Contributes to the development and maintenance of bones and teeth; may reduce the risk of osteoporosis when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.

Target Population

Postmenopausal women, adults over 50, individuals with low dietary calcium intake, those at risk of osteoporosis, pregnant and breastfeeding women with increased calcium needs

Usage & Dosage

Suggested Use

Take 1 tablet daily with a meal

Best Time to Take

With meals - calcium carbonate requires stomach acid for optimal absorption and is best absorbed with food

Recommended Daily Intake

Adults: 1000-1200mg elemental calcium/day; Upper limit 2500mg elemental calcium/day

Absorption Enhancers

Taking with a meal enhances absorption of calcium carbonate. Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium.

Absorption Inhibitors

High-oxalate foods (spinach, rhubarb), phytates (whole grains, legumes), excess dietary fiber, caffeine, alcohol, and proton pump inhibitors reduce absorption; iron and zinc compete for absorption - take separately

Side Effects

Possible Side Effects

Constipation, bloating, and gas are common especially at higher doses; hypercalcemia (nausea, vomiting, weakness, frequent urination, kidney stones) may occur with excessive intake

Safety & Warnings

Contraindications

Hypercalcemia; hypercalciuria; nephrolithiasis (calcium-containing kidney stones) or strong history of stones; severe renal impairment/renal failure; conditions causing hypercalcemia (e.g., hyperparathyroidism, sarcoidosis).

Pregnancy Safety

Consult Doctor

Breastfeeding Safety

Safe (generally compatible with breastfeeding when used at recommended doses; consult a clinician if high-dose or renal disease)

Interactions

Medication Interactions

Reduces absorption of tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics, bisphosphonates, levothyroxine, and iron supplements - take at least 2 hours apart; may reduce effectiveness of calcium channel blockers; thiazide diuretics increase risk of hypercalcemia when combined

Supplement Interactions

Competes with iron and zinc for absorption - take at separate times; magnesium absorption may be reduced when taken simultaneously in high doses

Synergistic Nutrients

Vitamin D3 (enhances intestinal calcium absorption), Vitamin K2 MK-7 (directs calcium to bone matrix and away from arteries), Magnesium (supports bone mineralization and calcium metabolism)

Special Populations

Target Population

Postmenopausal women, adults over 50, individuals with low dietary calcium intake, those at risk of osteoporosis, pregnant and breastfeeding women with increased calcium needs

Pregnancy Safety

Consult Doctor

Breastfeeding Safety

Safe (generally compatible with breastfeeding when used at recommended doses; consult a clinician if high-dose or renal disease)

Storage & Patient Advice

SFDA Storage Conditions

do not store above 30°c

Patient Counseling

Take with food (calcium carbonate absorbs better with gastric acid). If your total daily dose is high, split doses (the body absorbs best in smaller amounts, typically ≤500-600 mg elemental calcium per dose). Separate from levothyroxine, iron, zinc, and certain antibiotics (tetracyclines/fluoroquinolones) by at least 2-4 hours. Ensure adequate vitamin D intake. Do not exceed the label-recommended dose without medical advice; maintain hydration and seek advice if symptoms of hypercalcemia occur (e.g., nausea, constipation, excessive thirst/urination), especially if using high doses or with kidney stone history.

Science & Evidence

Bioavailability Form

Calcium Carbonate - contains 40% elemental calcium by weight, the highest among calcium salts; requires gastric acid for dissolution, so must be taken with food

Water or Fat Soluble

Water-soluble

Product Information

Supplement Type

Single ingredient

Vitamin D Form

D3 (Cholecalciferol)

Calcium Included

Yes - Calcium Carbonate 1667mg per tablet (providing approximately 667mg elemental calcium)

Vitamin K Included

No