IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
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USES: Ascorbate calcium is the calcium salt form of ascorbic acid (also known as vitamin C) that is used to prevent and treat scurvy, a vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C may also be used in persons with chronic illness, burns, certain blood disorders, or as dietary supplement.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily; or take as directed by your doctor. It may be taken without regard to food. Take this medication with a full glass (8 oz/240 ml) of water, unless directed otherwise. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this. Mix the powder form in a glass of juice or water. Stir well and drink the mixture immediately.
SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, diarrhea, and frequent urination may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if this serious side effect occurs: kidney stones. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: diabetes, blood disorders, kidney stones, high calcium level (hypercalcemia), parathyroid disease, any drug or food allergies. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. Ascorbic acid is considered safe during pregnancy when taken in proper doses. Ascorbic acid passes into breast milk. While there have been no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: vitamin and mineral supplements. If you take aspirin on a regular schedule, consult your doctor before taking ascorbic acid. This product can affect the results of certain lab tests, including tests for blood sugar. Diabetics should consult their doctor or pharmacist for the correct way to test their blood sugar levels while taking large amounts of ascorbic acid. Make sure laboratory personnel and your doctor(s) know you use this product. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe diarrhea, sharp lower back pain (long-term high doses).
NOTES: Foods that contain large amounts of vitamin C include citrus fruit, strawberries, potatoes, tomatoes, leafy vegetables, meat, fish, poultry, eggs and dairy products. Eat more of these foods to increase the amount of vitamin C in your diet. There are many ascorbic acid supplement products available. Many can be purchased without a prescription. Consult your doctor or pharmacist on the choice of product that is best for you.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
Developed by First DataBank, Inc., San Bruno, CA
Copyright 2004 by First DataBank, Inc.