PhosLo Side Effects

Generic name: calcium acetate

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 1, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about PhosLo Side Effects associated with calcium acetate. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name PhosLo.

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

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits, especially during the first few months of treatment with this medicine, since your dose may have to be adjusted. This is to make sure that this medicine is working properly and does not cause unwanted effects. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

Sometimes, you might have hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood) and not have any warning signs. You may need to have blood tests on a regular schedule while you are being treated with this medicine to check the amount of calcium and phosphorus in your blood. Keep all appointments your doctor makes for you.

If you have mild hypercalcemia, you may lose your appetite and have nausea, vomiting, or constipation. If the problem is severe, you may feel confused or extremely excited. Stop using this medicine and call your doctor right away if you think you might have severe hypercalcemia.

Do not take other calcium-containing products including dietary supplements and antacids. Your doctor may adjust the amount of calcium-containing foods you eat. Taking too much calcium while you are taking this medicine can cause hypercalcemia.

Serious side effects of PhosLo

Along with its needed effects, calcium acetate (the active ingredient contained in PhosLo) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking calcium acetate:

More common side effects

• 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

Incidence not known

• swelling

Other side effects of PhosLo

Some side effects of calcium acetate may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• diarrhea

Less common side effects

• itching

Incidence not known

• dizziness
• weakness

See also:

For healthcare professionals

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

General adverse events

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]

Further information

PhosLo side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer