Calcium chloride (CaCl2)

Calcium chloride is an inorganic salt that serves as a vital source of calcium ions (Ca2+) for various physiological functions. It is not a biological target such as a receptor or enzyme, but rather a therapeutic agent used to manage electrolyte imbalances and acute toxicities (StatPearls: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554469/). Calcium ions released from the salt are essential for muscle contraction, particularly in the myocardium, and play a critical role in nerve impulse transmission and blood coagulation (NIH: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-HealthProfessional/). Clinically, it is indicated for the treatment of hypocalcemia, hyperkalemia-induced cardiac arrhythmias, and magnesium toxicity. It also acts as an antidote for calcium channel blocker overdose by increasing the extracellular calcium concentration to overcome competitive inhibition (PubChem: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/24854). Due to its high osmolarity and potential for tissue necrosis, it is typically administered via a central venous line in emergency situations.

Other names

Calcium(II) chlorideCalcium dichlorideE509Calcium chloride anhydrous

Calcium chloride dissociates into calcium ions (Ca2+), which increase the threshold potential of excitable cells, stabilize cardiac membranes against the effects of hyperkalemia, and act as a cofactor (Factor IV) in the blood coagulation cascade (StatPearls: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554469/; PubChem: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/24854).