Phoslo (Calcium Acetate Tablet) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Phoslo

Antacids »

What are antacids, and how do they work?

Antacids are a class of drugs used to treat conditions caused by the acid that is produced by the stomach. The stomach naturally secretes an acid called hydrochloric acid that helps to break down proteins. This acid causes the contents of the stomach to be acidic in nature, with a pH level of 2 or 3. (pH levels are a measure of acidity in the stomach: the lower the number, the greater the acidity.) The stomach, duodenum, and esophagus are protected from acid by several protective mechanisms. When there is too much acid or protective mechanisms are inadequate, the lining of the stomach, duodenum or esophagus may become damaged by the acid, giving rise to various gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, heartburn (due to gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD), and other gastro-esophageal symptoms.

Antacids reduce acidity by neutralizing (counteracting) acid, reducing the acidity in the stomac...

Read the Antacids article »

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Phoslo Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

CALCIUM ACETATE - ORAL

(KAL-see-um AS-e-tate)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): PhosLo

USES: Calcium acetate is used to prevent high blood phosphate levels in patients who are on dialysis due to severe kidney disease. Dialysis removes some phosphate from your blood, but it is difficult to remove enough to keep your phosphate levels balanced. Decreasing blood phosphate levels can help keep your bones strong, prevent unsafe buildup of minerals in your body, and possibly decrease the risk of heart disease and strokes that can result from high phosphate levels. Calcium acetate is a natural mineral that works by holding onto phosphate from the diet so that it can pass out of your body.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with each meal or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition, response to therapy, and lab results.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it with each meal every day or on the schedule given to you by your doctor.

Take this medication exactly as directed. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than prescribed. Doing so may increase your risk of side effects.