Indications
Calcium Gluconate is primarily utilized as a dietary supplement to support individuals who may not achieve sufficient calcium intake through their regular diet. It serves a vital role as a cardioprotective agent in conditions characterized by elevated blood potassium levels. Additionally, Calcium Gluconate is employed as an antidote in cases of magnesium sulfate toxicity.
Pharmacodynamics
As the gluconate salt of calcium, Calcium Gluconate plays an essential role in ensuring adequate functioning of nerves, muscles, and the cardiovascular system. This compound aids in maintaining calcium balance and mitigating bone loss when ingested orally. Furthermore, Calcium Gluconate may offer chemopreventive benefits, potentially reducing the risk of colon and other types of cancer.
Absorption
The absorption of orally administered Calcium Gluconate occurs in the small intestine, with an efficiency ranging from 20% to 33%. This rate can vary based on factors such as the presence of vitamin D metabolites, the luminal pH, and dietary components that may either bind calcium, such as fiber or phytates. Enhanced calcium absorption is observed in individuals with calcium deficiency or those adhering to a low-calcium diet. In patients experiencing achlorhydria or hypochlorhydria, calcium absorption might be decreased, especially when using the carbonate salt form.
Metabolism
Calcium Gluconate does not necessitate hepatic metabolism for the release of calcium ions (Ca++). It maintains efficacy comparable to that of calcium chloride in addressing ionic hypocalcemia, even when hepatic function is compromised.
Mechanism of Action
Calcium Gluconate operates through mechanisms integral to various physiological systems. Calcium is crucial for maintaining the functional integrity of the nervous, muscular, and skeletal systems. It is involved in sustaining normal cardiac rhythm, ensuring proper renal function, facilitating respiration, promoting blood coagulation, and maintaining cell membrane and capillary permeability. Furthermore, calcium plays a pivotal role in regulating the release and storage of neurotransmitters and hormones, the uptake and binding of amino acids, the absorption of vitamin B12, and gastrin secretion. Approximately 99% of the body's calcium is stored within the skeletal structure predominantly as hydroxyapatite, with small proportions existing as calcium carbonate and amorphous calcium phosphates. There is a dynamic exchange between the calcium in bone and in plasma, reflecting the body's ongoing need for this mineral. In situations where calcium balance is disrupted, such as through dietary deficiency, the body compensates by drawing upon its skeletal reserves to meet more immediate metabolic requirements. Consequently, maintaining normal bone mineralization over the long term necessitates adequate levels of total body calcium.
