Chemical Properties
white crystalline powder or granules
Definition
ChEBI:Calcium gluconate is the calcium salt of D-gluconic acid. It has a role as a nutraceutical. It contains a D-gluconate.
Brand name
Calglucon (Novartis).
Flammability and Explosibility
Nonflammable
Industrial uses
calcium gluconate [Ca(C6H11O7)2] is used as a
food additive in vitamin pills.injection of a 10% calcium gluconate has been recommended. It has to be kept
in mind that the plasma Ca2+ level and any changes to the electrocardiogram (ECG) have to be carefully
monitored.
Clinical Use
Hypocalcaemia
Veterinary Drugs and Treatments
Calcium salts are used for the prevention or treatment of hypocalcemic
conditions.
Drug interactions
Potentially hazardous interactions with other drugs
Can impair absorption of some drugs, e.g. iron,
ciprofloxacin.
Metabolism
Calcium is absorbed mainly from the small intestine by
active transport and passive diffusion. About one-third
of ingested calcium is absorbed although this can vary
depending upon dietary factors and the state of the small
intestine. 1,25-Dihydroxycholecalciferol (calcitriol), a
metabolite of vitamin D, enhances the active phase of
absorption.
Excess calcium is mainly excreted renally. Unabsorbed
calcium is eliminated in the faeces, together with that
secreted in the bile and pancreatic juice. Minor amounts
are lost in the sweat, skin, hair, and nails.
Purification Methods
Dissolve it in H2O, filter and precipitate it by adding MeOH. Filter off the solid and dry it in a vacuum at 85o. Alternatively, dissolve it in H2O, filter (from insoluble inorganic Ca) and evaporate it to dryness under vacuum at 85o. [March et al. J Am Pharm Assoc 41 366 1952, Beilstein 3 IV 1255.]
