PHOSLO

Phoslo, also known as calcium acetate tablets, is a calcium supplement designed to regulate phosphate levels in the blood for individuals undergoing dialysis due to advanced kidney disease. This medication is also available in a generic form.

Elevated phosphorus, referred to as hyperphosphatemia, indicates an excess of phosphorus in the bloodstream. This condition is frequently associated with kidney impairment. In individuals with well-functioning kidneys, the typical range for phosphorus (phosphate) in the blood is 2.5 to 4.5 mg/dL.

For optimal results, consume this medication alongside meals. Utilize a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup to gauge the oral liquid accurately, as the standard household teaspoon may not accommodate the correct liquid volume.

Serious side effects may arise from calcium acetate use. Discontinue the medication and promptly contact your doctor if you experience elevated levels of calcium in your blood, characterized by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, increased thirst or urination, muscle weakness, bone pain, confusion, lack of energy, or a persistent tired feeling.

Concerning Calcium Phosphate Supplements: These supplements play a vital role in promoting robust bone development, and their significance spans from infancy through adulthood. Beyond bone health, calcium serves additional crucial functions, particularly in supporting healthy digestion. Calcium contributes to bile acid metabolism, the excretion of fatty acids, and the maintenance of a healthy gut microbiota.

Phosphate binders are used to mitigate positive phosphate balance and decrease serum phosphate levels in individuals dealing with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The objective is to impede the advancement of chronic kidney disease and address mineral and bone disorders (CKD and MBD).

Sodium phosphates find widespread use in the food industry and water treatment. They serve various purposes, such as acting as emulsifiers in processed cheese, functioning as thickening agents, and acting as leavening agents in baked goods. Additionally, sodium phosphates are used to regulate the pH of processed foods.

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate lacks selectivity for potassium and may also interact with calcium and magnesium. The onset of its effects occurs within 2 to 24 hours post-administration, and it remains active for 4 to 6 hours before being eliminated from the body through feces.

The oral administration of Calcium Acetate Capsules, USP involves blue opaque capsules marked with “HP 531.” Each capsule contains 667 mg of calcium acetate (anhydrous Ca(CH3COO)2; MW=158.17 grams), which is equivalent to 169 mg (8.45 mEq) of calcium.

PhosLo, containing calcium acetate, has the potential to increase your calcium levels as it comprises calcium. While you are on this medication, your healthcare provider will monitor your blood regularly to ensure that both your phosphorus and calcium levels remain within the normal range.

Symptoms may include muscle cramps, bone and joint pain, weakened bones, and itchy skin or rash.

An excess of phosphorus over calcium in the body prompts the utilization of stored calcium in bones. This process can result in osteoporosis (brittle bones) and contribute to issues with gums and teeth. Maintaining a balanced intake of dietary calcium and phosphorus can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

By binding phosphate in the diet, there is consequently less available for the absorption of calcium. In comparison, administering phosphate binders between meals yielded more significant results, as evidenced by the reduction in intestinal calcium absorption.

Dosage and Elemental Calcium Content:

Calcium acetate (PhosLo): Each 667 mg capsule contains 169 mg of elemental calcium.
Calcium carbonate (Calci-Mix powder): The 1250 mg powder provides 500 mg of elemental calcium.
Generic Calcium carbonate: A 400 mg tablet delivers 160 mg of elemental calcium.

Unlike Fosrenol, Phoslo, and Tums, alternative phosphorus binders function akin to a magnet. They attract the phosphorus in the food, allowing it to bind with the phosphorus binder and be transported through the digestive tract for elimination.

Several researchers have proposed that the comparatively elevated levels of phosphorus and protein in the diets of industrialized nations may diminish calcium absorption, thus exacerbating the issue of calcium deficiency.

Serious side effects may result from the use of calcium acetate. Cease using the medication and promptly contact your doctor if you experience symptoms such as elevated levels of calcium in your blood, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, increased thirst or urination, muscle weakness, bone pain, confusion, lack of energy, or persistent fatigue.

These supplements play a vital role in promoting robust bone development, extending their importance from infancy to adulthood. Beyond contributing to bone strength, calcium plays a significant role in supporting healthy digestion. It assists in bile acid metabolism, the excretion of fatty acids, and the maintenance of a healthy gut microbiota.

Follow your doctor’s instructions if they have prescribed this medication for you. Typically, take this medication orally with each meal.

Peritonitis is a prevalent complication of peritoneal dialysis, characterized by a bacterial infection of the peritoneum. This condition may arise when the dialysis equipment is not adequately maintained and kept clean. If bacteria are present on the equipment, there is a risk of their spreading to the peritoneuma thin tissue layer lining the interior of the abdomen.

Calcium acetate is used to regulate elevated levels of phosphorus in the bloodstream among individuals with kidney disease undergoing dialysis, a medical procedure used to cleanse the blood in cases where the kidneys are functioning inadequately. This medication belongs to a category of drugs known as phosphate binders.

Initially, adults typically take 10 milliliters (mL) with each meal. Your doctor will adjust the dosage based on the severity of your elevated blood phosphorus level. The usage and dosage for children should be determined by the doctor.

When consumed with meals, calcium acetate reacts with phosphate in the food, producing calcium phosphate. This compound is poorly absorbed by the body and is eliminated through feces. By binding phosphate in the intestines, the absorption of phosphate into the body is diminished.

Intense nausea, vomiting, or constipation; elevated blood calcium symptoms such as confusion, fatigue, loss of appetite, increased thirst or urination, and weight loss; or signs of a kidney stone like severe pain in your side or lower back, blood in your urine, and painful urination.

Administered orally, calcium acetate is provided in the form of a tablet, capsule, or liquid solution and should be taken with food. Your veterinarian may recommend additional doses between meals, although the primary administration is during meals. Be meticulous when measuring liquids. The medication is expected to take effect within 1 to 2 hours.

If a health condition hinders you from obtaining sufficient phosphorus through food, your doctor may prescribe a supplement. Phosphate is also used to address certain types of urinary tract infections and serves as a preventive measure against calcium stones in the urinary tract.

Typically, phosphate binders are ingested within 5 to 10 minutes before or right after meals and snacks. Your doctor and renal dietitian will provide guidance on the timing of your phosphate binder intake, specifying the quantity to be taken with each meal.

The mechanism of action of calcium acetate involves binding with the phosphate present in the food you consume, facilitating its elimination from the body without absorption.

If you experience elevated phosphate levels in your blood (hyperphosphatemia), your healthcare provider may suggest the use of phosphate binders. This condition is more common in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure.

Frequent side effects may encompass: elevated blood calcium levels, nausea, or diarrhea.

Pruritus (which may occur anywhere on your body) discomfort in the bones (particularly around your shoulder and hip joints) tingling sensations in your lips and fingers muscle weakness gritty and bloodshot eyes an elevated risk of heart disease and stroke an increased likelihood of bone fractures.

Calcium acetate may lead to symptoms like gas, bloating, and constipation. Exercise caution when prescribing it to individuals at risk of irregular heart rhythms or those using digitalis, as calcium acetate might trigger arrhythmia. Additionally, treatment with calcium acetate can induce hypercalcemia in patients with end-stage renal disease.

Excessive intake of the phosphate supplement can lead to an overabundance of phosphorus, known as hyperphosphatemia. Symptoms may include diarrhea and stomach cramps. It is advisable to consult with your doctor to determine the appropriate balance for your body.

Calcium supplements typically have minimal side effects, but on occasion, individuals may experience issues such as gas, constipation, or bloating. Among these, calcium carbonate is generally more likely to cause constipation. It might be necessary to experiment with various brands or types of calcium supplements to identify the one that suits you best.

Phosphate salts can potentially lead to side effects like stomach upset, diarrhea, headaches, and more. These salts, in the form of phosphorus, may be considered unsafe when consumed in daily doses exceeding 4 grams for adults aged 70 and younger, or doses surpassing 3 grams daily for individuals over 70 years of age.

Your healthcare provider might suggest non-prescription medications for managing diarrhea. Examples include loperamide, which is available under the brand names Imodium and Imodium A-D.

Side effects of potassium chloride may include stomach bloating, severe vomiting, and intense stomach pain. High potassium levels may manifest as nausea, weakness, tingling sensations, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, or loss of movement. Additionally, be aware of signs of stomach bleeding, such as bloody or tarry stools, and coughing up blood or vomit resembling coffee grounds.

PhosLo has the potential to lead to severe side effects. Discontinue the use of PhosLo and promptly contact your doctor if you experience symptoms indicative of high calcium levels in your blood, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, increased thirst or urination, muscle weakness, bone pain, confusion, lack of energy, or persistent fatigue.