Maczorb Tablet

MACZORB TABLET by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

MACZORB TABLET is a nutritional supplement primarily used to ensure adequate calcium supply to the body, supporting bone health and various metabolic functions. It is also marketed under the name Maczorb Forte Tablet.

Composition

MACZORB TABLET contains elemental calcium and Calcium Aspartate Anhydrous, with strengths such as 560 mg Calcium Aspartate Anhydrous and 73 mg Elemental Calcium.

Uses

MACZORB TABLET is prescribed for a range of conditions related to calcium deficiency and bone health:

• Calcium Deficiency: Treats and prevents low blood calcium levels.
• Bone Health: Supports bone strength and density, manages conditions like osteoporosis (weak and brittle bones), loss of bone mass, and reduces the risk of fractures.
• Bone and Cartilage Disorders: Used as an adjuvant for conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, bone spur, and damage to bone and cartilage.
• Muscle Function: Helps manage muscle spasms, particularly tetany (spasms of the hands and feet), as calcium is essential for proper muscle function.
• Increased Calcium Requirements: Acts as a supplement when the body's calcium demand is high, such as in the elderly, post-surgery, during pregnancy, and lactation.

Dosage and Administration

Take MACZORB TABLET as advised by your healthcare provider. Swallow the tablet whole with water; it should not be chewed or crushed. While it can be taken with or without food, taking it with meals is generally recommended for better absorption and to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Consistent use at a fixed time is often advised.

Side Effects

MACZORB TABLET is generally well-tolerated. However, some common side effects may include:

• Digestive discomfort
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Stomach upset
• Gas and bloating
• Loose stools
• Loss of appetite

Excessive calcium intake can lead to hypercalcemia or other health issues.

Precautions

• General: Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or having underlying health conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, or disorders of calcium metabolism. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
• Kidney Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney disease or a history of kidney stones, as dose adjustment may be necessary.
• Drug Interactions: Calcium supplements may interact with certain medications, including antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin), thyroid hormones, ceftriaxone, digitoxin, dolutegravir, raltegravir, aspirin, clopamide, and indapamide. Avoid taking MACZORB TABLET simultaneously with iron supplements, as each can interfere with the other's absorption.
• Food Interactions: Coffee, tea, dairy, and high-fiber foods may reduce calcium absorption; it is advisable to space out consumption of these with MACZORB TABLET.
• Alcohol: It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Maczorb Tablet.
• Children: Should be used in children only under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Storage

Store MACZORB TABLET in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the tablets in their original packaging and out of reach of children and pets.

Here are some frequently asked questions about MACZORB TABLET:

What is MACZORB TABLET used for?

MACZORB TABLET is primarily used as a nutritional supplement to prevent and treat low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia) in individuals who do not get enough calcium from their diet. It is beneficial in managing conditions such as osteoporosis (brittle and weak bones), arthritis, fibromyalgia, bone spurs, and damage to bones and cartilage. It also helps support overall bone health, strengthen bones, and manage muscle spasms (tetany).

How does MACZORB TABLET work?

MACZORB TABLET contains Calcium Aspartate (often as Anhydrous), a highly soluble form of calcium. This active ingredient works by promoting calcium absorption in the intestine and its retention by the kidneys, thereby increasing serum calcium levels. It also helps increase bone density by stimulating osteoblasts (cells that form new bone tissue) to produce more calcium and decrease bone resorption. Calcium is vital for strong bones and teeth, proper muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting.

What is the usual dosage for MACZORB TABLET?

The dosage and duration of MACZORB TABLET should be strictly as advised by your doctor, depending on your age, body weight, and medical condition. It is generally recommended to swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not chew or crush it. Some sources suggest taking it in the morning (about one hour after breakfast) or in the afternoon with plenty of water to enhance calcium absorption through sunlight exposure. It can be taken with or without food, though taking it with meals may enhance absorption and reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

What are the possible side effects of MACZORB TABLET?

While generally well-tolerated, common side effects of MACZORB TABLET can include gas, constipation, loose stools, loss of appetite, bloating, and stomach upset. Less common effects might involve thirst, increased urination, or confusion. In cases of excessive calcium intake, hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood) can occur. If any side effects worsen or persist, consult your doctor.

Is MACZORB TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

MACZORB TABLET is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding when prescribed by a doctor. However, it is important to consult your healthcare provider before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as individual circumstances and needs may vary.

Can MACZORB TABLET be taken with other medications?

MACZORB TABLET can interact with certain medications. Calcium supplements may interfere with the absorption of some antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin) and thyroid hormones, so it's advisable to space out their intake by a few hours. It is also important to avoid taking it simultaneously with iron supplements, as they can interfere with each other's absorption. Concurrent use with Ceftriaxone and Digitoxin is generally contraindicated. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while taking MACZORB TABLET?

Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems (including a history of kidney stones or renal impairment), liver disease, heart disease, or hypercalcemia (increased calcium levels in the blood), as dose adjustments or extra caution may be necessary. It is generally unsafe to consume alcohol with MACZORB TABLET, and it's recommended to avoid dairy, high-fiber foods, and caffeine around the same time as taking the tablet, as they may interfere with calcium absorption. This medicine should be used with caution in children, and a pediatrician should be consulted for appropriate dosage.

What happens if a dose of MACZORB TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of MACZORB TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one, as this may increase the risk of side effects.

How should MACZORB TABLET be stored?

MACZORB TABLET should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture, preferably in its original packaging. Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets.