Calcium gluconate

Definition

Calcium gluconate is a mineral supplement and medication used to treat or prevent low blood calcium levels. It is also used in the treatment of conditions such as hypocalcemia, hyperkalemia, and magnesium toxicity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Calcium gluconate is commonly administered intravenously for rapid correction of severe hypocalcemia.
2. It can be used as an antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity in obstetric emergencies.
3. Oral forms of calcium gluconate are less effective for acute conditions due to slower absorption rates compared to intravenous administration.
4. When administering calcium gluconate IV, it should be done slowly to avoid potential side effects like cardiac arrhythmias.
5. Calcium gluconate can interact with other medications such as digoxin; therefore, concurrent use should be monitored closely.

Review Questions

• What are the primary medical uses of calcium gluconate?
• Why must intravenous calcium gluconate be administered slowly?
• How does calcium gluconate act as an antidote in magnesium sulfate toxicity?

Related terms

Calcimimetics:

Drugs that mimic the action of calcium on tissues by activating the calcium-sensing receptor.

Bisphosphonates:

A class of drugs that prevent the loss of bone density by inhibiting bone resorption.

Hypocalcemia:

A condition characterized by low levels of calcium in the blood, often treated with calcium supplements like calcium gluconate.