How does it work?

Sodium cellulose phosphate is a medicine used to reduce the amount of calcium in the blood. Sodium cellulose phosphate acts in the stomach, binding to calcium taken in with the diet. This prevents the absorption of calcium from the stomach into the blood stream. As there is a reduction in the amount of calcium absorbed from the stomach to replace what has been used up by the body, the blood calcium levels decrease. Therefore, sodium cellulose phosphate is useful in the treatment of conditions that result in high blood calcium levels. Normally, calcium is necessary for the formation of strong bones and teeth. It is also required to transmit nerve signals and help muscle cells function properly. However, excessive calcium in the blood (hypercalcaemia) can have serious consequences. Symptoms of hypercalcaemia range from nausea and constipation to heart palpitations. Therefore, it is important to decrease blood calcium levels when they become too high. This medicine is also used as a basis for a test to determine the level of calcium absorption.

What is it used for?

Condition in which bones are excessively dense (osteopetrosis)

Excessive intake of Vitamin D

High blood calcium levels in infants due to unknown causes (idiopathic hypercalcaemia of infancy)

High calcium levels in urine (hypercalcuria) and the recurrent formation of kidney stones

Sarcoidosis with high blood calcium levels

Tests for evaluating calcium absorption

Warning!

This medicine should be used in conjunction with a low calcium diet. The intake of dairy products in particular should be restricted.

It may be beneficial to decrease the intake of foods such as spinach, rhubarb, peanuts, beetroot and chocolate (oxolate-rich foods).

This preparation may be sprinkled on food.

Use with caution in

Children

Not to be used in

Conditions in which low sodium intake in the diet is essential

Congestive heart failure

Kidney failure

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The manufacturer states not to use this medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding as there is insufficient safety information available. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Dissolve or mix this medication with water before taking.

Take this medication with or after food.

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