Military Obstetrics & Gynecology
Pharmacy

Calcium Gluconate

Category:

• Electrolyte and water

Description:

• Electrolyte (element)

Indications:

• Hypocalcemic tetany, hypocalcemia related to hypoparathyroidism and due to rapid growth of pregnancy

• Black widow spider bites to relieve muscle cramping

• Hyperkalemia (if patient is not digitalized)

Contraindications:

• Ventricular fibrillation

• Hypercalcemia

Precautions:

• Pregnancy category C

• Inject very slowly (1.5 ml/min)

• Use only if calcium compound if indications are clearly defined in a digitalized patient

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

• FAST administration: tingling sensations, sense of oppression “heat waves”

• vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, bradycardia

• cardiac arrhythmias, syncope and cardiac arrest

Dosage:

Administered SLOW intravenous infusion ONLY  

The dose is dependent on the requirements of the individual patient.

Usual dose:

• Adult: 0.5-2g (5-20ml)

• Child: 200-500mg (2-5ml)

• Infant: Not more than 200mg (2ml)

Solution must be clear (no precipitate present) prior to use.  If present, a precipitate may be dissolved by warming vial to 60-80 degrees C (140-176 degrees F), with occasional agitation, until the solution becomes clear.  Shake vigorously. Allow to cool to room temperature before dispensing.