Calcium gluconate
Brands: Calcionate, Glucal
Calcium gluconate is a mineral supplement used to treat calcium deficiencies in pets.
Used for
- hypocalcemia
- eclampsia
- milk fever
How it is given
- Administration
- injection
- Frequency
- as needed
- Duration
- until calcium levels normalize
- Storage
- Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 0.5 mL/kg via slow IV
dog
- Large dogs
- 0.5 mL/kg via slow IV
- Small dogs
- 0.5 mL/kg via slow IV
- Medium dogs
- 0.5 mL/kg via slow IV
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Calcium gluconate
Side effects
Common
- injection site irritation
Rare
- hypercalcemia
Severe
- cardiac arrhythmias
Do not use when
- existing hypercalcemia
- severe kidney disease
Interacts with
- digitalis
- certain antibiotics
Warnings
- monitor calcium levels
- use with caution in kidney disease
Calcium gluconate questions
What is Calcium gluconate used for in pets?
Calcium gluconate is used to treat calcium deficiencies and related conditions.
Is a prescription required for Calcium gluconate?
Yes, it should be administered under veterinary supervision.
Can Calcium gluconate be given orally?
It is typically given via injection for immediate effects.
What are the signs of an overdose?
Signs include vomiting, increased thirst, and arrhythmias.
Can pregnant animals receive Calcium gluconate?
Use with caution and under veterinary guidance.
Full drug detail
Overview
Calcium gluconate is a mineral supplement commonly used in veterinary medicine to address calcium deficiencies in pets. It is essential for bone health, muscle function, and various metabolic processes.
How It Works
Calcium gluconate provides a bioavailable source of calcium, which is crucial for the maintenance of neuromuscular function and bone integrity. It helps in the transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction, and blood clotting.
Uses & Indications
Calcium gluconate is used to treat:
- Hypocalcemia
- Eclampsia in dogs and cats
- Milk fever in cattle
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 0.5 mL/kg via slow IV infusion
- Medium Dogs: 0.5 mL/kg via slow IV infusion
- Large Dogs: 0.5 mL/kg via slow IV infusion
Cats
- Standard: 0.5 mL/kg via slow IV infusion
Horses & Cattle
- Dosage varies; consult a veterinarian.
Administration
Calcium gluconate is administered via injection.
Frequency
Administer as needed based on veterinarian advice.
Duration
Typically administered until calcium levels normalize.
Side Effects
Common
- Mild irritation at the injection site
Rare
- Hypercalcemia
Severe
- Cardiac arrhythmias (requires immediate veterinary attention)
Precautions & Warnings
- Monitor calcium levels during treatment.
- Use with caution in animals with kidney disease.
Drug Interactions
- Avoid concurrent use with digitalis.
- May interact with certain antibiotics.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
FAQ
What is Calcium gluconate used for in pets? Calcium gluconate is used to treat calcium deficiencies and related conditions.
Is a prescription required for Calcium gluconate? Yes, it should be administered under veterinary supervision.
Can Calcium gluconate be given orally? It is typically given via injection for immediate effects.
What are the signs of an overdose? Signs include vomiting, increased thirst, and arrhythmias.
Can pregnant animals receive Calcium gluconate? Use with caution and under veterinary guidance.