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Calcium chloride Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 31, 2021.

For the Consumer

Applies to calcium chloride: intravenous solution

What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

  • Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Dizziness or passing out.
  • Mood changes.
  • Change in how much urine is passed.
  • A heartbeat that does not feel normal.
  • Back pain, belly pain, or blood in the urine. May be signs of a kidney stone.
  • This drug may cause tissue damage if the drug leaks from the vein. Tell your nurse if you have any redness, burning, pain, swelling, blisters, skin sores, or leaking of fluid where the drug is going into your body.

What are some other side effects of this drug?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Managing side effects (general information)

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to calcium chloride: compounding powder, injectable solution, intravenous solution

Other

Rapid injection may cause tingling sensations, calcium taste, sense of oppression and "heat wave".

Precipitations of ceftriaxone-calcium salt, including fatalities, have been seen in newborns under 28 days old, both pre-term and full term, treated with intravenous ceftriaxone and calcium. The precipitates were found in lungs and kidneys. Newborns have a low blood volume and ceftriaxone has a longer half-life in them, leading to a high precipitation risk.[Ref]

Frequency not reported: Tingling sensations, calcium taste, sense of oppression, "heat wave, soft tissue calcification, precipitations of ceftriaxone-calcium salt[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Frequency not reported: Peripheral vasodilatation, moderate fall in blood pressure, hypertension, venous thrombosis, flushing, bradycardia, arrhythmias[Ref]

Nervous system

Frequency not reported: Drowsiness, tingling sensation, calcium taste[Ref]

Local

Frequency not reported: Local burning sensation, venous irritation, necrosis[Ref]

Dermatologic

Frequency not reported: Sloughing, sweating[Ref]

Renal

Frequency not reported: Nephrocalcinosis[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

Frequency not reported: Muscle weakness, bone pain[Ref]

Metabolic

Frequency not reported: Anorexia, polydipsia[Ref]

Psychiatric

Frequency not reported: Mental disturbances[Ref]

Genitourinary

Frequency not reported: Polyuria[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Frequency not reported: Vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, nausea, mild gastrointestinal disturbances and irritation[Ref]

References

1. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics." O 0

2. "Product Information. Calcium Chloride (calcium chloride)." Hospira Inc, Lake Forest, IL.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer