Ridactate is a mineral that is used to treat or prevent low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia) in people who do not get enough calcium from food.

Ridactate is also used in the treatment of conditions such as osteoporosis, disorders of the parathyroid gland, or certain muscle problems.

Ridactate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Ridactate works best if you take it with food.

Drink plenty of liquids every day.

You may need medical tests.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Ridactate is safe to use if you have ever had:

• kidney disease, kidney stones;

• heart problems;

• a lung disorder called sarcoidosis;

• a pancreas disorder;

• decreased stomach acid; or

• any condition that makes it hard for your body to absorb nutrients from food (malabsorption).

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while nursing a baby.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

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

Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, headache, tiredness, or mood changes.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

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

Ridactate may cause serious side effects. Stop using Ridactate and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe nausea, vomiting, or constipation; or

• high blood calcium--confusion, tiredness, loss of appetite, increased thirst or urination, weight loss.

Common side effects of Ridactate may include:

• stomach pain, 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.

Ridactate can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth, especially:

• an antibiotic;

• any other supplement or medicine that contain calcium;

• heart medication;

• a diuretic or "water pill"; or

• medicines to treat osteoporosis (such as alendronate, pamidronate, risedronate, zoledronic acid, Fosamax, Boniva, Reclast, and others).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Ridactate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.