CALCIUM CHLORIDE
Calcium chloride is a concentrated calcium salt given by injection into a vein. It raises blood calcium quickly and is used in emergency and intensive care settings by trained staff, not as a routine supplement.
What Calcium Chloride Is Used For
- Dangerously low blood calcium
- Protecting the heart when blood potassium is very high
- Certain overdoses and resuscitation protocols
- Part of prescribed intravenous fluid mixtures
Common Side Effects
- Burning or pain along the vein
- A warm flushing sensation
- Slow heartbeat if given too quickly
- Tissue damage if it leaks outside the vein
Precautions
It is given slowly through a secure line with heart monitoring, because rapid injection can disturb the rhythm. Blood calcium is measured before and after. It is not interchangeable with calcium gluconate, and it is never used at home or by mouth for supplementation.
This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.
