PhosLo Side Effects

Generic Name: calcium acetate

Note: This page contains side effects data for the generic drug calcium acetate. It is possible that some of the dosage forms included below may not apply to the brand name PhosLo.

For the Consumer

Applies to calcium acetate: oral capsule, oral solution, oral tablet

As well as its needed effects, calcium acetate (the active ingredient contained in PhosLo) may cause unwanted side effects that require medical attention.

Major Side Effects

If any of the following side effects occur while taking calcium acetate, check with your doctor immediately:

• Abdominal or stomach pain
• confusion
• constipation
• depression
• dry mouth
• full or partial loss of consciousness
• headache
• incoherent speech
• increased urination
• loss of appetite
• metallic taste
• muscle weakness
• nausea or vomiting
• thirst
• unusual tiredness
• weight loss

• Swelling

Minor Side Effects

Some calcium acetate side effects may not need any medical attention. As your body gets used to the medicine these side effects may disappear. Your health care professional may be able to help you prevent or reduce these side effects, but do check with them if any of the following side effects continue, or if you are concerned about them:

• Diarrhea

• Itching

• Dizziness
• weakness

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to calcium acetate: compounding powder, injectable solution, oral capsule, oral liquid, oral tablet

General

The most common adverse events were hypercalcemia, nausea, and diarrhea.^[Ref]

Metabolic

Very common (10% or more): Hypercalcemia (16.3%)^[Ref]

Hypercalcemia was usually asymptomatic or manifested as constipation, anorexia, nausea, and vomiting, and in 0.1% of patients caused confusion, delirium, stupor, or coma.^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Very common (10% or more): Nausea (14%), diarrhea (13.2%)
Common (1% to 10%): Vomiting
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Constipation^[Ref]

Dermatologic

Common (1% to 10%): Pruritus^[Ref]

Other

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Soft tissue calcification
Postmarketing reports: Edema, weakness^[Ref]

Nervous system

Postmarketing reports: Dizziness^[Ref]

It is possible that some side effects of PhosLo may not have been reported. These can be reported to the FDA here. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.

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