Calcium carbonate overdose
Definition
Calcium carbonate is an ingredient that is commonly found in antacids (for heartburn) and some dietary supplements. Calcium carbonate overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of a product containing this substance.
Alternative Names
Poisonous Ingredient
Calcium
Where Found
Products containing calcium carbonate, including
- Certain antacids (Tums, Chooz)
- Certain mineral supplements
- Certain hand lotions
- Certain vitamin and mineral supplements
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
Symptoms
- Abdominal pain
- Bone pain
- Coma
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Depression
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Irregular heartbeat
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Home Care
Do NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by Poison Control or a health care professional. Seek immediate medical help.
Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:
- Patient's age, weight, and condition
- The name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
- When it was swallowed
- The amount swallowed
Poison Control
The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.
This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.
What to Expect at the Emergency Room
The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Blood tests may be done. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. The patient may receive:
- Activated charcoal
- Tube through the mouth into the stomach to empty the stomach (gastric lavage)
Outlook (Prognosis)
Because calcium carbonate is considered a fairly nontoxic substance, recovery is quite likely. Chronic overuse is more serious than a single overdose.
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
