Not all Calcium Tablets are the Same

Abstract

Calcium supplements sold in Indian pharmacies differ substantially in elemental calcium content, dosing frequency, food dependence, and gastrointestinal tolerability, yet these differences are rarely explained when a tablet is dispensed. This review compares the seven calcium formulations available in india- calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, calcium citrate malate (CCM), calcium pidolate, calcium lactate, calcium lactogluconate, and calcium glubionate-summarising elemental calcium percentage, recommended dosing, food requirements, and stomach tolerance for each, drawing on published bioavailability and epidemiological data. While calcium carbonate remains the most affordable and widely prescribed option, CCM offers the highest bioavailability (>35%) and does not require gastric acid for absorption, making it preferable for elderly patients, those on acid-suppressing therapy, and individuals with malabsorption. Practical guidance is provided on dose splitting, Vitamin D3 co-administration, spacing from iron supplements, and the daily upper limit of elemental calcium.