Calcium Carbonate

Category: mineral

Aliases: Tums

Pharmacological Mechanism

OTC antacid + dietary calcium supplement — neutralizes gastric acid (CaCO3 + 2HCl → CaCl2 + H2O + CO2). Also used to bind dietary phosphorus in chronic kidney disease. Acid rebound after chronic use; constipation common.

Half-Life (t½)

PO: 4h

Dosing Guidelines

• PO: Typical 1000mg (Range: 500 - 3000 mg)

Target Organ Systems

• digestive
• renal