Buy Generic Calcium Carbonate Online

Generic Calcium Carbonate Information

Introduction

Calcium Carbonate is an oral calcium supplement used primarily to increase calcium intake and to neutralise gastric acid. In Hong Kong, it is commonly prescribed for osteoporosis prevention, calcium deficiency, and as an antacid for occasional heartburn. The active compound is Calcium Carbonate, classified under the General health medication group. It is also employed off‑label for phosphate binding in chronic kidney disease and as a calcium source in combination therapies.

What is Calcium Carbonate?

Calcium Carbonate is a white, odorless inorganic salt that supplies elemental calcium when ingested. It is produced by many pharmaceutical manufacturers worldwide; in Hong Kong the product is marketed by both local distributors and international suppliers.

Calcium Carbonate is the generic version of brand‑name products such as Tums, Caltrate, Os‑Cal and Cal‑C. The generic formulation contains the same active compound, Calcium Carbonate, and is chemically identical to the brand versions. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost‑effective treatment option.

How Calcium Carbonate Works

Calcium Carbonate dissolves in the acidic environment of the stomach, releasing calcium ions (Ca²⁺) and carbonate (CO₃²⁻). The released calcium is absorbed primarily in the duodenum and jejunum via active transport that is vitamin D‑dependent, raising serum calcium levels to support bone mineralisation and neuromuscular function.

When used as an antacid, the carbonate ions react with gastric hydrochloric acid (HCl) to form calcium chloride, water and carbon dioxide, thereby raising gastric pH and relieving acid‑related discomfort. Onset of antacid effect occurs within minutes, while the calcium‑repletion effect develops over weeks as bone turnover balances.

Conditions Treated with Calcium Carbonate

• Osteoporosis and osteopenia – Chronic calcium insufficiency contributes to reduced bone mineral density. Calcium Carbonate supplement, together with vitamin D, helps meet the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for adults (1 000 mg elemental calcium per day for most Hong Kong residents).
• Dietary calcium deficiency – Common in vegetarian or low‑dairy diets prevalent among some Hong Kong subpopulations.
• Gastro‑oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and occasional heartburn – Neutralises excess stomach acid, providing symptomatic relief.
• Hypocalcaemia secondary to hypoparathyroidism or vitamin D deficiency – Restores calcium levels when dietary intake is insufficient.
• Phosphate binding in chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 3–5 – Calcium carbonate can bind dietary phosphate in the gut, reducing serum phosphate concentrations.

Epidemiological data from the Hong Kong Osteoporosis Study (2022) indicate that up to 22 % of post‑menopausal women have osteopenia, underscoring the public health need for accessible calcium supplementation.

Patient Groups Most Likely to Benefit

• Post‑menopausal women and men over 65 – Higher risk of bone demineralisation.
• Individuals with low dietary calcium intake – Vegans, lactose‑intolerant persons, and those on calorie‑restricted diets.
• Patients with occasional dyspepsia or heartburn – Who require a non‑prescription antacid that also supplies calcium.
• CKD patients requiring phosphate control – When prescribed under renal specialist supervision.

Contra‑indications include severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²) without specialist oversight, hypercalcaemia, and known hypersensitivity to calcium salts.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Constipation or mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Bloating or belching due to carbon dioxide release.
• Nausea when taken on an empty stomach.

Rare

• Hypercalcaemia (elevated blood calcium) presenting with polyuria, fatigue, or confusion.
• Milk‑alkali syndrome in excessive chronic dosing, characterised by metabolic alkalosis, hypercalcaemia and renal insufficiency.

Serious

• Kidney stones (calcium oxalate) in predisposed individuals with high urinary calcium excretion.
• Severe allergic reactions such as angio‑edema or anaphylaxis (extremely uncommon).

Drug‑Drug Interactions

• Iron supplements – Calcium carbonate can chelate iron, reducing its absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
• Bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate) – Calcium may impair oral bisphosphonate absorption; take bisphosphonate with water on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before calcium.
• Thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine) – Calcium may decrease levothyroxine bioavailability; separate dosing by 4 hours.
• Certain antibiotics (tetracyclines, quinolones) – Form insoluble complexes with calcium; spacing of doses is required.
• Proton‑pump inhibitors (PPIs) – Reduced gastric acidity may lower calcium carbonate dissolution, potentially diminishing calcium absorption.

Patients should inform healthcare providers of all concurrent medications, including over‑the‑counter supplements and herbal products.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard adult dosing for calcium supplementation: 500 mg to 1 000 mg elemental calcium (approximately one to two tablets of 250 mg calcium carbonate) taken 2–3 times daily with meals. The exact dose should follow a physician’s recommendation based on age, gender, dietary intake, and laboratory values.
• Antacid dosing: 1–2 tablets (approximately 500 mg elemental calcium) chewed or swallowed as needed for heartburn, not exceeding 4 g of calcium carbonate per day.
• Missed dose: Take the missed tablet with the next meal. Do not double‑dose to compensate a forgotten dose.
• Overdose management: Acute ingestion of large amounts (e.g., >5 g elemental calcium) can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and hypercalcaemia. If overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention; treatment may involve intravenous fluids, diuretics, and monitoring of cardiac rhythm and renal function.

Practical Precautions

• Take calcium carbonate with food to enhance absorption and reduce gastrointestinal upset.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can increase the risk of gastritis when combined with antacids.
• Patients with a history of kidney stones should discuss calcium dosing with a nephrologist.
• For individuals on antihypertensive thiazide diuretics, monitor serum calcium, as the combination may predispose to hypercalcaemia.

Buying Calcium Carbonate from Our Online Pharmacy

Calcium Carbonate can be purchased conveniently from our online pharmacy in Hong Kong. Our service offers several advantages for Hong Kong residents seeking reliable access to this essential supplement:

• Affordable pricing – We source the generic product close to manufacturer cost, passing savings directly to the consumer.
• Verified quality – All batches are supplied by licensed overseas manufacturers that meet international Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.
• Guaranteed delivery – Discreet, reliable shipping options include 7‑day express service for mainland Hong Kong addresses and ~3 weeks regular airmail for remote locations.
• Online‑only access – The platform provides a seamless ordering experience for patients who may have limited pharmacy stock or insurance coverage for calcium supplements.
• Pharmacy broker model – We act as a broker, partnering with overseas licensed pharmacies and accredited suppliers. This structure enables a discreet service that respects patient privacy while ensuring regulatory compliance.

Our streamlined checkout includes a mandatory professional evaluation to confirm that Calcium Carbonate is appropriate for your health status.

FAQ

• Is Calcium Carbonate available in both brand‑name and generic forms in Hong Kong?
  Yes, Calcium Carbonate is marketed under several brand names such as Tums, Caltrate, and Os‑Cal, as well as generic versions produced by multiple manufacturers. The generic form contains the identical active ingredient and is typically more cost‑effective.

• Does Calcium Carbonate require special storage conditions?
  The product should be stored at room temperature, protected from direct sunlight, moisture and heat. Do not store it in bathrooms or near kitchen stoves, as humidity can affect tablet integrity.

• What packaging format is used when Calcium Carbonate is ordered online?
  Orders are shipped in sealed, tamper‑evident bottles or blister packs, each clearly labeled with the product name, strength, batch number and expiry date. Packaging complies with both Hong Kong import regulations and international safety standards.

• Can Calcium Carbonate be safely imported into Hong Kong for personal use?
  Personal import of up to a 30‑day supply of over‑the‑counter Calcium Carbonate is permitted under Hong Kong customs guidelines, provided the product is accompanied by a valid prescription when required. Our online pharmacy ensures all shipments meet local regulatory requirements.

• Are there any manufacturer warnings specific to Asian populations?
  Some manufacturers note an increased prevalence of lactose intolerance in Asian groups, which can affect calcium absorption from dairy sources. Calcium Carbonate, being a mineral supplement, bypasses this issue but patients with renal impairment should exercise caution, as highlighted in regional product literature.

• Do formulations of Calcium Carbonate differ between the US, EU and Asian markets?
  The active ingredient is identical worldwide; however, excipients such as binders, flavorings or coating agents may vary. These differences can affect tablet size, taste and dissolution rate but do not change the calcium content.

• Can Calcium Carbonate be incorporated into telemedicine‑based treatment plans?
  Yes, licensed clinicians can prescribe Calcium Carbonate through virtual consultations, and our online pharmacy supports electronic prescription fulfilment, allowing seamless integration with telehealth services.

• Is Calcium Carbonate suitable for children or adolescents?
  Calcium supplementation in younger age groups is generally reserved for those with documented deficiency or specific medical conditions, and dosing differs from adult recommendations. A pediatrician should evaluate the need and prescribe an age‑appropriate formulation.

• What is the recommended interval between taking Calcium Carbonate and other supplements?
  To avoid absorption interference, separate calcium carbonate from iron, zinc, magnesium or certain antibiotics by at least 2 hours. This timing maximises the bioavailability of each nutrient or medication.

• How long does shipping typically take for Calcium Carbonate orders?
  Express delivery within Hong Kong usually arrives within 7 business days, while standard airmail for overseas stock may take up to 3 weeks, depending on customs clearance and the destination address.

• Can I combine Calcium Carbonate with vitamin D supplements?
  Yes, co‑administration of vitamin D enhances calcium absorption. Many clinicians recommend a combined regimen, but the dosage of each product should follow a healthcare professional’s guidance to avoid excess intake.

Glossary

Elemental calcium

The amount of calcium ion (Ca²⁺) that is actually available for absorption from a calcium salt. Calcium carbonate provides roughly 40 % elemental calcium by weight.

Bioavailability

The proportion of an administered dose that reaches systemic circulation in an active form. Calcium carbonate’s bioavailability is lower than calcium citrate when taken without food, but rises when ingested with meals.

Hypercalcaemia

An abnormally high concentration of calcium in the blood, which can cause neurological, renal and cardiovascular symptoms.

Chelation

A chemical process where a mineral ion binds to another compound, reducing its absorption. Calcium can chelate iron, magnesium, and certain antibiotics, diminishing their effectiveness.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Calcium Carbonate is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Calcium Carbonate for individuals who may limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.