Adcal Dosage

[54jen]

Could someone please tell me what the recommended daily dosage of Adcal-D3 750mg tablets is? I am on 4mg prednisolone and do not take Alendronic Acid as a result of a good Dexa scan result. I have just realised that my latest prescription advises 4 tablets a day, which is double the amount I have previously been taking.

Thanks!

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hi 54jen,

Think you should probably be taking more than 2 tablets of 750mg per day. My prescription is for 2 x 1000 mg, and has been from my original diagnosis in 2012. Incidentally am also taking AA, but then I am one of those people who is susceptible to osteoporosis. Suggest you check with GP to ensure you are taking enough calcium.

[Celtic PMRGCAuk volunteer]

54jen, I agree with DorsetLady that you should check with your GP, especially as to why your prescription has suddenly been increased.

I was never prescribed calcium plus Vit D supplements whilst on steroids for PMR/GCA due to a misunderstanding between my GP and rheumy at the time. However, that later turned out to be a lucky escape as I have since learnt that too much calcium could be detrimental to someone in my position who already has a low functioning sole kidney.

In any case, it is important for everyone to have their calcium levels checked from time to time to ensure that that they aren't taking too much calcium which can lead to hypercalcaemia.

Do also request a Vit D blood test if you haven't already had one. Many of us have been found to be deficient, and any severe deficiency can lead to pain in similar areas as those of PMR. The small amount of Vit D in Adcal will not be sufficient to raise levels to normal if deficient.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

mhra.gov.uk/home/groups/par...

On page 10 of this document it says that the dose for AdCal-D3 750mg/200IU CAPLETS is 2 film coated tablets twice a day and that this gives the same dose as that approved for the chewable AdCal-D3 version previously.

Which have you been given this time? Is it the chewable tablets or the caplets? That would account for the change in instructions.

I'm sorry, I would have copied and pasted the entire relevant info but it simply won't work so go and have a read yourself.

[Annodomini]

My prescription is 2 X 1500mg of chewable AdCal per day. I've been chewing these for over 4 years. I actually rather like them as they're about the only sweet thing I'm allowing myself at the moment.

[54jen]

Thank you all for your answers. i have been prescribed the cap lets. It seems that I need to increase my dose, but I will check with my doctor too.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to 54jen]

If it's the caplets - that's your answer. I'd check with the pharmacist myself!