TRUCAL Softgel Capsule 15's

Introduction About TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE

TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE is used in adults for the management of low blood calcium levels in conditions including chronic renal failure, osteodystrophy (bone pain, joint pain, bone deformation, and fractures due to kidney disease or disturbances in calcium and phosphorus levels), and osteoporosis (bones become weak and brittle as we age).

TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE is also used to manage hypoparathyroidism, rickets or osteomalacia after small bowel resection, and psoriasis. It is a combination of Calcitriol, Calcium carbonate, and Zinc sulphate monohydrate, which belongs to the group of medicines called Nutritional supplements. Take TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE as advised by your physician. Swallow the medicine with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine.

Avoid taking TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE within 2 hours of eating foods rich in oxalic acid (Ex. spinach and rhubarb), phosphate (Ex. brain), or phytic acid (Ex. whole cereals). TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE is not recommended for patients having diseases and/or conditions resulting in hypercalcaemia and/or hypercalciuria (ex. myeloma, bone metastases, primary hyperparathyroidism) and hypervitaminosis D.

TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE should be used with caution in patients with impaired liver function and kidney problems such as nephrolithiasis, nephrocalcinosis, and renal failure.

TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE is generally not recommended for use in pregnant women, children, or adolescents unless considered necessary. TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE should be avoided by breastfeeding women. TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE should be used with caution with elderly patients.

The common side effects of TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE are muscle pain, weakness, headache, excessive sleepiness, nausea and vomiting, and dry mouth. If any of these become worse, contact your doctor.

Uses Of TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE

To manage the following conditions in adults:

• Chronic renal failure
• Renal osteodystrophy
• Osteoporosis
• Hypoparathyroidism
• Parathyroidectomy
• Vitamin D-dependent rickets
• Osteocalcaemia
• Hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesemia after small bowel resection
• Psoriasis

How TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE Works

TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE is a combination of calcitriol that acts as an active form of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and the functioning of calcium in the body. Calcium carbonate works as a nutritional supplement to directly increase the calcium stores within the body, and zinc sulphate counteracts the diminished calcitriol response to arrest bone loss. All these actions together will increase the levels of calcium, which is useful in managing bone disorders and disturbances in the parathyroid glands.

How to use TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE

Take TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE as advised by your physician. Swallow the medicine with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine. The correct dose and duration for you will be decided by your doctor, depending on your age, body weight, and disease condition.

Side Effects Of TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE

How To Manage Side Effects

Bloating

Eat smaller, more frequent meals, as large meals can overwhelm the digestive system. Avoid gas-producing foods such as beans, lentils, carbonated drinks, and certain vegetables like broccoli and cabbage. Reduce your intake of fatty foods, as these can slow digestion. Drinking plenty of water helps digestion. Eat slowly, as eating too quickly can cause the swallowing of air, leading to bloating. Exercise regularly to help move gas through the digestive system. Probiotic supplements can help balance gut bacteria. Consult your doctor if bloating persists.

Constipation

Increase fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Maintain regular meal times and avoid skipping meals. Exercise regularly to promote bowel movements. Establish a bathroom routine and avoid ignoring the urge to go. Avoid processed foods and prioritize probiotic-rich foods for gut health. Consult your doctor if constipation persists.

Diarrhea

Drink plenty of clear fluids, like water, diluted fruit juices, or oral rehydration solutions, to stay hydrated. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they can worsen dehydration. Gradually take bland, low-fiber foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast to help firm up stools. Probiotics, found in yogurt or supplements, may help restore the balance of gut bacteria. Practice good hand hygiene to prevent the spread of infection. Consult your doctor if diarrhea worsens.

Headache

Ensure adequate fluid intake, as dehydration can cause headaches. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Eat balanced meals at regular intervals to avoid blood sugar fluctuations that can trigger headaches. Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress levels. Engage in regular physical exercise, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. Apply a cold pack or warm compress to the forehead or neck to alleviate pain. Consult your doctor if a headache persists.

Nausea And Vomiting

Stay hydrated with small sips of clear fluids like water, ginger ale, or electrolyte solutions. Avoid consuming large meals; instead, opt for bland, easy-to-digest foods. Ginger, peppermint, or chamomile tea may help soothe the stomach. Rest in a comfortable position, preferably with your head elevated, to ease symptoms. Consult your doctor if nausea and vomiting persist.

Stomach Pain

Avoid spicy or fatty foods, caffeine, or alcohol that may exacerbate symptoms. Eat a bland diet consisting of easily digestible foods like rice, bananas, applesauce, and toast. Applying a heating pad or taking a warm bath can also help soothe abdominal muscles and alleviate discomfort. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, but avoid excessive consumption to prevent further irritation. If stomach pain persists, consult your doctor.

Warning & Precautions

Pregnancy

Monitoring required

TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE is generally not recommended for use by pregnant women unless considered necessary. Consult your doctor for advice.

Breastfeeding

Contraindicated

TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE is generally not recommended for use in breastfeeding women as it may pass through the breast milk. Consult your doctor for advice.

Kidney

Use with Caution

TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE should be used cautiously in patients with kidney problems such as nephrolithiasis, nephrocalcinosis, and renal failure. Consult your doctor for advice.

Liver

Use with Caution

TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE should be used with caution in patients with impaired liver function. Consult your doctor for advice.

Allergy

Contraindicated

Do not take TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE if you are allergic to calcitriol, calcium carbonate, or zinc sulphate.

Use In Pediatrics

Contraindicated

TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE is generally not recommended for use in children and adolescents (under 18 years of age). Consult your doctor for advice.

Use In Geriatrics

Use with Caution

TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE should be used with caution with elderly patients. Consult your doctor for advice.

Interactions

A. Drug-Drug interactions: 

• Diuretics [Ex. chlorothiazide, chlorthalidone, hydrochlorothiazide, indapamide, and metolazone]
• Corticosteroids [Ex. cortisone, prednisone, and prednisolone]
• Cardiovascular agents (Ex. digoxin)
• Antilipidemic (Ex. cholestyramine)
• Laxatives (Ex. paraffin oil)
• Thyroid hormones (Ex. levothyroxine)
• Antibacterials [Ex. tetracycline, sparfloxacin, ofloxacin, penicillamine, and norfloxacin]
• Antiepileptics [Ex. carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone]
• Antifungals (Ex. ketoconazole)

B. Drug-Food interactions:

Avoid taking TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE within 2 hours of eating foods rich in oxalic acid (Ex. spinach and rhubarb), phosphate (Ex. bran), or phytic acid (Ex. whole cereals).

Overdosage:

If you or anyone else accidentally takes too much of TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE, consult your doctor immediately or visit the nearby hospital. Symptoms of an overdose are nausea, severe vomiting, dehydration, and restlessness.

Synopsis

More Information

FAQs About TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE

Q: What is the use of TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE?

A: TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE is used in the management of hypocalcaemia, rickets or osteomalacia, hypophosphatemia, hypoparathyroidism, osteodystrophy, and osteoporosis to increase blood calcium. It also maintains the balance of calcium and phosphate metabolism in the body.

Q: Does TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE have vitamin D?

A: Yes, TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE contains calcitriol, which acts as an active form of fat-soluble vitamin D. It helps increase intestinal absorption of calcium and acts as a regulator of calcium and phosphate metabolism.

Q: What are the side effects of TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE?

A: TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE may cause constipation, nausea, loss of appetite, feeling thirsty, bone pain, stomach pain, frequent urination, and muscle weakness due to its effect on the blood calcium level. If any of these symptoms bother you, consult your doctor immediately.

Q: Is TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE good for health?

A: TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE contains vitamin D and calcium, which help strengthen bones and improve the overall quality of bones. Calcium is also required for the optimal functioning of muscles, the nervous system, and the heart. Hence, taking this medicine is good for your overall health.

Q: How do I take TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE?

A: Always take TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE as instructed by your doctor and continue to follow any advice about diet recommended by your doctor. Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly because the symptoms may return.

Q: Can I take TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE with other medications?

A: Certain medications can interact with calcium and other minerals. If you are taking other medications, consult your healthcare provider to determine if TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE is appropriate for you and to avoid potential interactions.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take extra capsules to make up for the missed dose.

Q: Is TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE safe during pregnancy?

A: TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE is generally not recommended for use by pregnant women unless considered necessary. Consult your doctor for advice.

Q: Who should not take TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE?

A: Individuals with hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood) or those with a known allergy to any of the ingredients should avoid taking TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Q: Where can TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE be purchased?

A: To order TRUCAL SOFTGEL CAPSULE online, visit the Netmeds website, search for the product, add it to your cart, and proceed to checkout. Follow the instructions for payment and delivery. Netmeds has made buying online medicines easier for consumers and is one of India's leading online pharmacies.

References

1. KD Tripathi. Drugs affecting calcium balance. Essentials of Medical Pharmacology. Eighth Edition. 2019. Page – 361, 362, 368.

2. Lung BE, Mowery ML, and Komatsu DEE. Calcitriol. National Library of Medicine. [Revised in November 2021] [Accessed on 27th June 2024] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526025/

3. Ciplamed. Calzem capsules. [Revised in November 2013] [Accessed on 27th June 2024] https://www.ciplamed.com/product-index/calzem-capsules

4. DM Pharma. Caldific CZ. [Accessed on 27th June 2024] https://www.dmpharma.co.in/Calcium%20carbonate,%20Zinc%20&%20Calcitriol%20Soft%20Gelatin%20Capsule.html

Useful Diagnostic Tests

• Calcium
• Vitamin D 1,25 Dihydroxy
• Extended Arthritis Care
• Comprehensive Arthritis Care
• Advance Bone Care
• Comprehensive Bone Care
• Esr Automated
• Basic Arthritis Care Plan
• Kidney Function Test (KFT)
• Pth-Intact Molecule Parathyroid Hormone

Author Details

Written By Dr. N. Sai Swaroop - Pharm.D

Reviewed For Accuracy By Dr. Shruthi Raikar - BDS

Last updated on 29 Jun 2024 | 05:25 PM(IST)