Is it possible to overdose on calcium

However, taking megadoses of some water-soluble vitamins can lead to potentially dangerous side effects. For example, taking very high doses of vitamin B6 can lead to potentially irreversible nerve damage over time, while taking large amounts of niacin — typically in excess of 2 grams per day — can cause liver damage 3 , 4.

Given that fat-soluble vitamins can accumulate in the body, these nutrients are more likely to lead to toxicity than water-soluble vitamins. While rare, taking too much vitamin A, D, or E can lead to potentially harmful side effects 5.

Alternatively, taking high doses of non-synthetic vitamin K seems to be relatively harmless, which is why an upper intake level UL has not been set for this nutrient 6. Water-soluble vitamins are readily excreted from the body, while fat-soluble vitamins can be stored in tissues. Fat-soluble vitamins are more likely to cause toxicity, although water-soluble vitamins can do so as well. When consumed naturally through foods, these nutrients are unlikely to cause harm, even when consumed in large amounts.

When taken in excess, some water-soluble vitamins can cause adverse effects, some of which can be dangerous. However, similarly to vitamin K, certain water-soluble vitamins have no observable toxicity and hence no set UL. These vitamins include vitamin B1 thiamine , vitamin B2 riboflavin , vitamin B5 pantothenic acid , vitamin B7 biotin , and vitamin B12 cobalamin 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , Therefore, caution should be taken with all nutritional supplements.

The following water-soluble vitamins have set ULs, as they can cause adverse side effects when taken in high doses:. Note that these are side effects that healthy people may experience when taking large doses of these vitamins.

Individuals with health conditions can experience even more serious reactions to taking too much of a vitamin. For example, though vitamin C is unlikely to cause toxicity in healthy people, it can lead to tissue damage and fatal heart abnormalities in those with hemochromatosis , an iron storage disorder Aside from vitamin K, which has a low potential for toxicity, the remaining three fat-soluble vitamins have a set UL due to their potential to cause harm at high doses.

Although vitamin K has a low potential for toxicity, it can interact with certain medications, such as warfarin and antibiotics 6. Many Americans are deficient in vitamin D and have blood levels in the 20s. Newer studies question the benefits of vitamin D supplements for prevention and survival from diseases.

The extra vitamin D triggers extra calcium absorption. This can cause muscle pain, mood disorders, abdominal pain and kidney stones. It may also increase risk for heart attack and stroke. Most studies show that vitamin D3 is more effective than vitamin D2 at raising blood levels of calcifediol, the main circulating form of vitamin D. You should see your doctor every three months until you reach steady vitamin D blood levels.

That usually takes six to 12 months. After that, checkups every year or every other year are fine. Why it matters: Vitamin A is important for visual health. Editorial team. Calcium carbonate overdose Tums overdose; Calcium overdose. Poisonous Ingredient Calcium carbonate can be dangerous in large amounts.

Where Found Products that contain calcium carbonate are certain: Antacids Tums, Chooz Mineral supplements Hand lotions Vitamin and mineral supplements Other products may also contain calcium carbonate. Home Care Seek medical help right away. Before Calling Emergency Have this information ready: Person's age, weight, and condition The name of the product ingredients and strength, if known When it was swallowed The amount swallowed.

Poison Control Your local poison control center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline from anywhere in the United States. What to Expect at the Emergency Room Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

Tests that may be done include: Blood and urine tests Chest x-ray ECG electrocardiogram, or heart tracing Treatment may include: Intravenous fluids through a vein Medicine to treat symptoms Activated charcoal Laxatives Tube through the mouth into the stomach to empty the stomach gastric lavage Breathing support, including tube through the mouth into the lungs and connected to a ventilator breathing machine.

Outlook Prognosis Calcium carbonate is not very poisonous. In rare cases, the Mayo Clinic reports that severe hypercalcemia can interfere with your heart function, causing heart arrhythmia, such as palpitations and fainting.

Without treatment, hypercalcemia may lead to coma and even death. Calcium supplements have the potential to interact with several types of prescription drugs. Consult your doctor if you are on any medications before taking calcium supplements. Calcium carbonate can react with thiazide diuretics , often referred to as water pills for high blood pressure.

The interaction can cause a shift in the body's acid-to-base balance and increase the risk of hypercalcemia. Calcium can decrease effectiveness of drugs that treat osteoporosis, some antibiotics, anticonvulsants and medications used to treat Paget's disease. Antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium may increase urinary calcium excretion. Certain laxatives and mineral oil can decrease calcium absorption. Long-term use of prednisone and similar drugs can also cause calcium depletion, leading to osteoporosis.

Nutrition Nutrition Basics Vitamins and Supplements. Can a Person Overdose on Calcium? By Gord Kerr Updated July 22, Jill Corleone is a registered dietitian with more than 20 years of experience. Gord Kerr. Gordon Kerr has worked in the health care industry for the past 15 years.

With his passion for a healthy lifestyle and the desire to help others benefit from proper nutrition and natural remedies, Gordon accepted the international position with CARICOM Regional Food and Nutrition in the Caribbean and moved to Barbados. As well as educating the under-nourished people in the region, Gordon formulated dietary plans to help manage medical conditions including chronic nutrition-related diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension. Now retired, Gord enjoys a quiet life on a small island in the Gulf Islands of B.