Calcium gluconate is a medication and mineral supplement used to treat conditions caused by low calcium levels, high blood potassium, and magnesium toxicity. It is the calcium salt of gluconic acid.
Calcium gluconate is used in medicine for a variety of reasons, primarily related to calcium deficiency and electrolyte imbalances. Here's a breakdown of its main uses:
1. Treatment of Hypocalcemia (Low Blood Calcium):
- This is the most common use of calcium gluconate. It's indicated for conditions like:
- Hypocalcemic tetany: Characterized by muscle spasms, cramps, and seizures due to low calcium levels.
- Hypoparathyroidism: A condition where the parathyroid glands don't produce enough parathyroid hormone, leading to low calcium.
- Hypocalcemia due to rapid growth or pregnancy: Periods of increased calcium demand.
- Hypocalcemia related to certain medications.
- Hypocalcemia following blood transfusions: Citrate, used as an anticoagulant in blood, can bind to calcium.
2. Management of Electrolyte Imbalances:
- Hyperkalemia (High Blood Potassium): Calcium gluconate helps to stabilize the heart muscle in the presence of high potassium levels, reducing the risk of dangerous arrhythmias. It does not lower potassium levels but counteracts its effects on the heart.
- Hypermagnesemia (High Blood Magnesium): Calcium gluconate can help to reverse some of the toxic effects of high magnesium levels, particularly on the central nervous system and heart.
3. Other Uses:
- Cardiac Arrest: While not a routine treatment, calcium gluconate may be used in specific cases of cardiac arrest associated with hyperkalemia, hypocalcemia, or calcium channel blocker overdose.
- Hydrofluoric Acid Burns: Topical calcium gluconate gel can be applied to hydrofluoric acid burns to bind with the fluoride ions and prevent systemic toxicity and further tissue damage. In severe cases, subcutaneous or intra-arterial administration may be considered.
- Calcium Channel Blocker and Beta-Blocker Overdose (Off-label): In some cases, calcium gluconate may be used to counteract the effects of overdoses of these medications.
