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Bone health
Calcium & Vitamin D
Brand names: Calcium carbonate or citrate; vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)
The nutritional foundation for strong bones and for every osteoporosis treatment.
Video lesson
What it’s used for
Bone health, osteoporosis treatment and protection during steroid therapy.
How it works
Calcium is the mineral bone is built from, and vitamin D helps the gut absorb it.
How it’s taken
Most adults over 50 aim for 1,000 to 1,200 mg of calcium a day, ideally mostly from food, plus 800 to 1,000 IU of vitamin D or as advised.
Side effects
Constipation or bloating from calcium supplements. Very high doses can raise kidney stone risk.
Monitoring
Vitamin D blood level when starting osteoporosis treatment.
Good to know
Calcium carbonate is best absorbed with food; calcium citrate works with or without food.
At a glance
Class
Bone health
Brand names
Calcium carbonate or citrate; vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)
Reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD, FACR
Questions about your own care?
Book an in-person or telehealth consultation with Dr. Tahir.
For education only. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without talking to your care team.