Shelcal Os Tablet

SHELCAL OS TABLET

SHELCAL OS TABLET is a nutritional supplement manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd., primarily used to manage calcium and Vitamin D deficiencies and support overall bone health.

Composition

Each tablet contains:

• Elemental Calcium (500 mg): Derived from calcium carbonate, this essential mineral is crucial for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, nerve transmission, and muscle function.
• Alfacalcidol (0.25 mcg): This is an analog of Vitamin D3 that gets converted to calcitriol in the body. It plays a vital role in enhancing the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the intestines, thereby improving bone density and managing Vitamin D deficiency.

Uses

SHELCAL OS TABLET is prescribed for various conditions, including:

• Calcium and Vitamin D Deficiency: To replenish low levels of these nutrients in the body.
• Osteoporosis and Osteopenia: To support bone health, increase bone mineral density, and reduce the risk of fractures.
• Rickets and Osteomalacia: Conditions characterized by softening or deformation of bones due to lack of calcium and Vitamin D.
• Hypoparathyroidism and Hypocalcaemia: To manage low blood calcium levels.
• It is also recommended for elderly individuals, pregnant, and breastfeeding women to ensure adequate calcium and Vitamin D intake.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage and duration should be as advised by a healthcare professional. It can generally be taken with or without food, preferably after the evening meal. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water, not chewed or crushed, unless specifically instructed.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, bloating, gas, stomach pain, or upset stomach.
• Rarely, individuals may experience itching or rash. Serious side effects like hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood) can occur with excessive intake, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, increased thirst, and fatigue.

Precautions

• Inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions (e.g., kidney disease, heart problems) or allergies.
• Avoid taking if you have hypercalcemia or tissue calcification.
• Consult a physician if pregnant or breastfeeding.
• May interact with certain medications like antibiotics, antacids, and corticosteroids; maintain a gap of at least 2 hours between administration.
• Avoid excessive alcohol, caffeine, and soft drinks as they can hinder calcium absorption.

Storage

Store SHELCAL OS TABLET in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Shelcal OS Tablet by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd is a nutritional supplement commonly prescribed to address calcium and vitamin D deficiencies and support bone health. It contains a combination of Calcium and Alfacalcidol.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Shelcal OS Tablet:

What is Shelcal OS Tablet used for?

Shelcal OS Tablet is primarily used to treat and prevent calcium and vitamin D deficiencies. It is prescribed for conditions such as osteomalacia/rickets (softening of bones), hypoparathyroidism (low parathyroid hormone levels), renal osteodystrophy (bone changes due to kidney failure), hypocalcaemia (low blood calcium), osteoporosis, and osteopenia (reduced bone density). It helps in maintaining strong bones and muscles.

How does Shelcal OS Tablet work?

Shelcal OS Tablet contains two key ingredients: Calcium and Alfacalcidol. Calcium is an essential mineral that aids in the formation and maintenance of strong bones. Alfacalcidol is a form of vitamin D that gets converted into its active form (calcitriol) in the body. Calcitriol works by increasing the absorption of calcium and phosphate from the intestines into the blood and bones, thereby strengthening bones and improving bone mineral density.

What is the usual dosage of Shelcal OS Tablet?

The dosage of Shelcal OS Tablet should be taken exactly as advised by your doctor. It can generally be taken with or without food. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

What are the possible side effects of Shelcal OS Tablet?

Common side effects may include stomach pain, itching, rash, constipation, stomach upset, or gas. Other possible side effects can be nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, feeling thirsty, bone pain, frequent urination, and muscle weakness. If any side effects persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult your physician.

Is Shelcal OS Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is crucial to consult a doctor before using Shelcal OS Tablet. While generally considered safe if the benefits outweigh the risks, prolonged use should be monitored by a healthcare professional.

Can Shelcal OS Tablet be taken with other medications?

Shelcal OS Tablet can interact with certain medications. Inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking. For example, it should be used with caution with diuretics, epilepsy medications (e.g., carbamazepine), rifampicin, isoniazid, and immunosuppressants (e.g., cortisone). A time gap of at least 4 hours should be maintained if taking thyroid medicines (e.g., levothyroxine). Bisphosphonates (for osteoporosis) should be taken at least 1 hour before Shelcal OS. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of iron, zinc, and strontium ranelate preparations. Avoid taking other calcium or vitamin D supplements concurrently without consulting your doctor to prevent overdose.

What precautions should be taken while using Shelcal OS Tablet?

Do not take Shelcal OS Tablet if you are allergic to its components, have high calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcaemia), calcification (calcium deposits in body tissues), high vitamin D levels, or kidney stones. Use with caution if you have kidney or liver problems. Avoid consuming foods rich in oxalic acid (like spinach and rhubarb), phosphate (like bran), or phytic acid (like whole cereals) within two hours of taking the tablet, as they may hinder calcium absorption. It is also advisable to limit alcohol, caffeine, and soft drink consumption as they can affect calcium absorption. If you experience dizziness, avoid driving.

What happens if a dose of Shelcal OS Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose, 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 take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should Shelcal OS Tablet be stored?

Shelcal OS Tablet should be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep it out of reach and sight of children and pets.