In the pharmaceutical industry, the combination of Elemental Calcium and Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) is the foundational therapy for bone mineral density management and systemic calcium homeostasis.
As a pharmacist and manufacturer, I classify this as a Mineral and Vitamin Supplement. At your WHO-GMP facility in Mumbai, you likely manufacture this in various strengths, most commonly 500 mg Elemental Calcium paired with 250 IU or 400 IU of Vitamin D3.
Primary Clinical Uses
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Osteoporosis Management: Used to increase bone density and reduce fracture risk in elderly patients and post-menopausal women.
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Hypocalcemia: Treatment of low blood calcium levels caused by parathyroid disorders or dietary deficiencies.
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Osteomalacia & Rickets: Used to reverse the “softening of bones” caused by severe Vitamin D deficiency in adults and children.
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Prenatal Support: Frequently prescribed during pregnancy to support the skeletal development of the fetus and prevent the depletion of maternal bone stores.
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Adjuvant Therapy: Often paired with bisphosphonates or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for comprehensive bone care.
Mechanism: The Absorption Synergy
The reason these two are combined into a single tablet is a matter of biological necessity. Calcium cannot be utilized effectively by the body without the presence of Vitamin D3.
Vitamin D3 (The Gatekeeper): Once ingested, Vitamin D3 is converted in the liver and then the kidneys to its active form, Calcitriol. Calcitriol stimulates the synthesis of calcium-binding proteins (calbindin) in the small intestine.
Elemental Calcium (The Building Block): “Elemental” refers to the actual weight of the calcium available for absorption (e.g., Calcium Carbonate is 40% elemental calcium). Once absorbed, it is deposited into the bone matrix.
The Result: Together, they maintain Calcium Homeostasis, ensuring the body doesn’t have to “steal” calcium from the bones to support vital nerve and muscle functions.
The Manufacturer’s Perspective: Technical & Export
From a production and B2B standpoint at your facility in Mumbai, there are several ways to optimize this product for your digital platforms:
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Calcium Source Transparency: On your marketplace, specify whether you use Calcium Carbonate (highest elemental yield, 40%) or Calcium Citrate (better absorbed in patients with low stomach acid). This technical detail is a major USP for B2B buyers.
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The “Chewable” Factor: For the geriatric and pediatric markets, offering chewable flavored tablets is a significant selling point. It improves patient compliance for those who have difficulty swallowing large, high-density tablets.
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Stability & Oxidation: Vitamin D3 is highly sensitive to light and oxidation. At our facility, we utilize Alu-Alu blister packaging or opaque HDPE bottles with induction sealing to ensure a 36-month shelf life. This is critical for export to tropical Zone IVb regions.
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Dossier Readiness: As a staple of “Essential Medicine” lists, we provide full CTD/eCTD Dossiers to support your firm in bidding for government health tenders and hospital supply contracts globally.