Taking Calcium supplement when on Calcium Channel Blockers

[destiny234]

this might be totally wrong but I’m thinking I shouldn’t be taking calcium supplement if on calcium channel blockers (verapamil). Can anyone confirm this?

[Blearyeyed]

Actually , at recommended medical doses Calcium supplements can be taken by patients on Calcium Channel Blockers.Best method to reduce any interference with your CCB is to make sure you leave four hours between the CCB and Calcium supplement or multivitamin with Calcium in it.

My recommendation is to take Calcium Citrate after a meal instead of the generally prescribed Calcium Carbonate .

Calcium Citrate is an active form and more easily digested and absorbed so it doesn't cause the same stomach issues that Carbonate does.

Check your supplements to see which type is in them. Many seaweed types don't specify but actually still include a type of Calcium Carbonate even though the talk up how easy they are to absorb. Solgar does a good option.

Build up your dose rather than going for the top end ranges recommended on the packets. It allows you to find the dose you can tolerate. And you can still increase the amount of Calcium you get in your diet to help too.

Some GPs will prescribe Citrate type instead of the Carbonate if you have had tummy trouble taking Calcium Carbonate which prevents you taking it.

[mav7 in reply to Blearyeyed]

destiny234 Good advice by Blearyeyed

Would advise your doctor you are taking calcium supplements if he is not aware.

[opal11uk in reply to Blearyeyed]

I agree with the above answer, I was put on Calcium after I had breast cancer, the oncologist said that all women over 50 should be on them. In 2018 I broke my hip necessitating full replacement and whilst in the hospital my calcium tablets were increased to a larger dose, one a day only whereas before it was 2 and I also have to take another called Alendrolic Acid but only once a week, this to ward off Osteoporosis. I had no problem taking until the dosage increased and when my heart meds were increased last year due to perm.A/f and heart failure and I made the mistake of taking the calcium at the same time as the meds, stomach aches were awful so much so I couldn't eat my food, felt really rough then I figured it out and have since managed all, I take the Calcium tablet tea time with food, I also split my meds in the morning because both the Bisoporal and Propanol don't like each other either so I space them apart and this new regime has done the trick........no more stomach ache! Good luck!

[Ilovedogs12]

I would call the doctors practice and ask the question.

You don't need to speak to the doctor if they're not available, the receptionist can ask for you and call you back, or if the doctor needs to discuss it they will call you themselves.

[JOY2THEWORLD49]

Hi

Not sure but on Synthroid calcium is contra.

CCB only block the calcium going into your heart. Calcium and Vit D sunshine work together.

Are you showing low on Calcium? That is the only reason I would take Calcium but I would put up foods in calcium like milk, cheese, some fruit and veg.

You need to be so careful with supplements as some mount up, become toxic as they don't eliminate if in supplement form.

Cheri JOY. 75. (NZ)

[destiny234 in reply to JOY2THEWORLD49]

I don`t know if I am low on calcium, I will get a test. But as I am 66 I thought I should be on Calcium regardless. Thanks for your reply

[Ducky2003]

I've had Ad Cal or Accrete D3, which are calcium and Vit D tablets, and take Diltiazem as well. Not had any known issues and my pharmacist is red hot with any meds that are contraindicated.

[Madscientist16]

Both my doctor, cardiologist and pharmacist indicated that it is okay to take calcium supplements while on a calcium channel blocker. I take between 750 to 1500 mg per day along with a D3 vitamin. Bone health is very important for all, especially women.