Usage
This combination is classified as a nutritional supplement. It is used to address nutritional deficiencies in calcium, arginine, lysine, vitamin B6, and zinc. It may be prescribed to support bone health, improve circulation, promote gut health, boost immunity, and contribute to overall growth and well-being. It is not intended to treat or cure any specific disease.
Alternate Names
There is no officially recognized generic name for this specific combination. Individually, the components may be referred to as:
- Calcium Citrate: Tricalcium dicitrate
- L-Arginine: (S)-2-Amino-5-guanidinopentanoic acid
- L-Lysine: (S)-2,6-Diaminohexanoic acid
- Vitamin B6: Pyridoxine
- Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate: Zinc sulfate heptahydrate, White vitriol
Brand names include Calbritta-Forte and Arginox Forte.
How It Works
This combination product works through the synergistic actions of its individual components:
- Calcium citrate: Provides calcium, which is essential for bone formation, muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. It is absorbed in the intestines and excreted primarily through the kidneys.
- L-Arginine: A semi-essential amino acid involved in protein synthesis and various metabolic processes. It acts as a precursor for nitric oxide, which promotes vasodilation and improves blood flow. It is metabolized primarily in the liver.
- L-Lysine: An essential amino acid necessary for protein synthesis, collagen formation, and calcium absorption. It plays a role in immune function and hormone production. Metabolism occurs primarily in the liver.
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): A water-soluble vitamin crucial for various metabolic processes, including amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and red blood cell formation. It is absorbed in the small intestine and excreted by the kidneys.
- Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate: Provides zinc, which is essential for immune function, cell growth and division, wound healing, and protein synthesis. Zinc absorption occurs primarily in the small intestine, and excretion is mainly through the feces.
Dosage
Dosage recommendations are not standardized and should be determined based on individual patient needs and the specific product formulation. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for personalized dosing.
Standard Dosage
Not established.
Clinical Use Cases
Specific clinical dosage guidelines have not been established for this combination.
Dosage Adjustments
Dose adjustments should be individualized, considering factors such as renal or hepatic impairment and concurrent medications.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Stomach or abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Constipation
Rare but Serious Side Effects
Not established.
Long-Term Effects
Not established.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR)
Not established.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any of the components
- Conditions where high levels of these nutrients are detrimental (e.g., hypercalcemia, hyperzincemia).
- Severe renal impairment
Drug Interactions
This combination may interact with various medications, including:
- Medications for hypertension (e.g., metoprolol)
- Medications for hypothyroidism (e.g., levothyroxine)
- Medications for cancer (e.g., altretamine)
- Medications for anxiety and mood disorders (e.g., barbiturates)
- Medications for Parkinson’s disease (e.g., levodopa)
- Medications for epilepsy (e.g., phenytoin, primidone)
- Tetracycline antibiotics
- Alcohol
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
This combination is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding when taken in recommended amounts. However, it’s always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before use during these periods.
Drug Profile Summary
- Mechanism of Action: Provides nutritional supplementation.
- Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated; gastrointestinal issues may occur.
- Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, conditions with high nutrient levels, renal impairment.
- Drug Interactions: Multiple drug interactions exist (see above).
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor before use.
- Dosage: Determined by individual needs and product formulation.
- Monitoring Parameters: Monitor calcium, magnesium, zinc, and vitamin B6 levels if necessary, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions.
Popular Combinations
No established data on common drug combinations.
Precautions
- Screen patients for allergies and relevant pre-existing medical conditions.
- Exercise caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and the elderly.
- Advise patients to avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Calcium citrate + L-Arginine + L-Lysine + Vitamin B6 + Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate?
A: There’s no standardized dosage. A healthcare professional should determine the dosage based on the patient’s individual nutritional needs and the specific product formulation.
Q2: Can this combination be used during pregnancy?
A: While generally considered safe when taken as directed, consulting a healthcare professional before using this combination during pregnancy is always recommended.
Q3: Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
A: Yes, this combination can interact with numerous medications. It is essential to disclose all current medications, including OTC drugs and supplements, to a healthcare professional.
Q4: What are the common side effects?
A: Common side effects may include gastrointestinal issues like stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, and constipation.
Q5: Is this combination effective for treating osteoporosis?
A: While calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone health, this combination is not specifically indicated for treating osteoporosis. Consult a doctor for appropriate osteoporosis management.
Q6: Can I take this supplement with other multivitamins?
A: It’s important to discuss the use of this supplement with a healthcare professional before combining it with other multivitamins or supplements, as there’s a potential for exceeding recommended daily allowances of certain nutrients.
Q7: Should I take this supplement with food?
A: This supplement can be taken with or without food, but it’s best to take it at a fixed time for consistency.
Q8: Are there any long-term effects associated with this combination?
A: Long-term effects have not been established.
Q9: Who should not take this combination?
A: Individuals with hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients, hypercalcemia, hyperzincemia, or severe renal impairment should avoid this combination.
