Calcium is a mineral that is found naturally in foods. Calcium is necessary for many normal functions of the body, especially bone formation and maintenance.

Cal-Gest is used to prevent or to treat a calcium deficiency.

There are many brands and forms of calcium carbonate available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Cal-Gest may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Check the label of your Cal-Gest product to see if it should be taken with or without food.

Swallow the Cal-Gest regular tablet with a full glass of water.

The chewable tablet should be chewed before you swallow it.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Use the Cal-Gest powder as directed. Allow the powder to dissolve completely, then consume the mixture.

Cal-Gest may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes dietary changes. Learn about the foods that contain calcium.

Your Cal-Gest dose may need to be adjusted as you make changes to your diet. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take Cal-Gest if you have ever had:

• kidney disease;

• kidney stones;

• cancer;

• a parathyroid gland disorder; or

• high levels of calcium in your blood.

Ask a doctor before using Cal-Gest if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking any multivitamins, mineral supplements, or antacids while you are taking Cal-Gest.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Cal-Gest may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• little or no urinating;

• swelling, rapid weight gain; or

• high levels of calcium in your blood--nausea, vomiting, constipation, increased thirst or urination, muscle weakness, bone pain, confusion, lack of energy, or feeling tired.

Common side effects of Cal-Gest may include:

• upset stomach, gas; or

• constipation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Calcium can make it harder for your body to absorb certain medicines. If you take other medications, take them at least 2 hours before or 4 or 6 hours after you take Cal-Gest.

Other drugs may interact with calcium carbonate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.