What is calcium acetate?
Calcium is a mineral that is needed for many functions of the body, especially bone formation and maintenance. Calcium can also bind to other minerals such as phosphate, and aid in their removal from the body.
Calcium acetate is used to control phosphate levels to keep them from getting too high in people with kidney failure.
Calcium acetate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about calcium acetate?
Do not use this medication if you have high levels of calcium in your blood, or if you are also taking digoxin (digitalis, Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps).
Do not take additional calcium supplements unless your doctor has told you to.
Avoid using antacids without your doctor's advice. Use only the specific type of antacid your doctor recommends. Many antacids contain calcium and you could be getting too much of this mineral if you take a calcium antacid with calcium acetate.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking calcium acetate?
Do not use this medication if you have high levels of calcium in your blood, or if you are also taking digoxin (digitalis, Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps).
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether calcium acetate will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It is not known whether calcium acetate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.