Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) (CaCO3)

Calcium carbonate is an inorganic chemical compound that functions as a therapeutic agent rather than a traditional biological target like a protein or receptor. It is most commonly employed as an antacid to neutralize gastric hydrochloric acid, thereby relieving symptoms of heartburn and acid indigestion (StatPearls, 2023). Additionally, it serves as a vital source of elemental calcium for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and hypocalcemia, supporting bone mineralization and structural integrity (NIH, 2023). In the management of chronic kidney disease, calcium carbonate acts as a phosphate binder, forming insoluble complexes with dietary phosphate in the gut to prevent its absorption (PubMed, 2021). Its clinical use requires monitoring for potential side effects such as hypercalcemia, constipation, and the development of renal calculi (PubChem, 2024). Furthermore, its ability to alter gastric pH can significantly impact the bioavailability of other orally administered drugs (Wikipedia, 2024).

Other names

CalciteAragoniteVateriteChalkLimestonePrecipitated calcium carbonateCarbonic acid calcium salt

Calcium carbonate neutralizes gastric acid through a chemical reaction that produces calcium chloride, water, and carbon dioxide, thereby increasing gastric pH (StatPearls, 2023). It also provides a source of calcium ions for intestinal absorption via active transport and passive diffusion to maintain systemic calcium homeostasis (NIH, 2023). In the gastrointestinal lumen, it binds to dietary phosphate to form insoluble calcium phosphate, which is then excreted in the feces (PubMed, 2021).