Calcium Acetate
Calcium acetate binds phosphate from food in the gut and may be used for hyperphosphataemia in advanced kidney disease. It does not replace dialysis or dietary guidance.
Key points
- Calcium acetate works only when taken in relation to food as directed by the renal team.
- Calcium and phosphate levels need monitoring because treatment can cause high calcium.
- Confusion, severe weakness, repeated vomiting or an irregular heartbeat needs urgent assessment.
Listings are for comparison only. Suitability and supply depend on clinician and pharmacy checks, stock, destination rules and prescription requirements.
How it works
Calcium acetate combines with dietary phosphate in the digestive tract to form an insoluble compound that leaves the body in stool.
Important safety checks
Blood calcium and phosphate, other calcium or vitamin D products and the dialysis plan require review. Calcium acetate can reduce absorption of several medicines, including thyroid medicines and some antibiotics, so spacing instructions matter.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for confusion, marked drowsiness, repeated vomiting, severe weakness, fainting, an irregular heartbeat or severe abdominal pain with inability to pass stool.