Hypocalcemia

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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AMBULATORY CARE:

Hypocalcemia

is a low level of calcium in your blood. Your body may lose too much calcium or not absorb enough from the foods you eat.

Common signs and symptoms of hypocalcemia:

• Tingling in your hands, feet, or lips
• Muscle spasms or weakness, or facial twitching
• Shaking or loss of body control
• Seizures
• Slow or uneven heartbeat, or lightheadedness
• Anxiety, depression, anger, or confusion
• Seeing or hearing things that are not really there

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) or have someone call if:

• You have a seizure.
• You see or hear things that are not really there.

Seek care immediately if:

• You have a slow or uneven heartbeat and feel lightheaded.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Call your doctor or endocrinologist if:

• You have dry skin and brittle nails.
• Your symptoms do not go away, or they get worse.
• You feel depressed, anxious, angry, or confused.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment:

Calcium will be given to bring your levels back to normal. This may be given as a pill or IV. You may also need vitamin D or medicines to prevent bone loss.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• calcitriol
• Natpara
• calcium carbonate
• Rocaltrol
• Caltrate

View more treatment options

Manage hypocalcemia:

• Eat foods rich in calcium. Foods that contain calcium include milk, yogurt, cereals, and cheese. Leafy green vegetables, oranges, canned salmon, shrimp, and peanuts also contain calcium. Do not have caffeine or alcohol. These can slow your body's ability to absorb calcium. You may need to meet with a dietitian to help plan the best meals for you.
• Get safe amounts of sunlight. You may need to expose your skin to more sunlight to get more vitamin D. Ask your healthcare provider how to safely expose yourself to UV light if you need it.
• Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can worsen hypocalcemia. Ask your provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E- cigarettes and smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your provider before you use these products.

Follow up with your doctor or endocrinologist every 3 to 6 months, or as directed:

You will need to return to have your calcium levels checked. Bring a list of any questions you have so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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