PhosLo Side Effects

Generic name: calcium acetate

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 17, 2022.

Note: This document contains side effect information about calcium acetate. Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name PhosLo.

For the Consumer

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

Side effects requiring immediate medical attention

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

• 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

Side effects not requiring immediate medical attention

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

• Diarrhea

Less common

• Itching

Incidence not known

• 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]

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