Calcium Gluconate Injections

Calcium gluconate injection is used to treat acute hypocalcemia (low blood calcium levels), cardiac arrest due to hyperkalemia, calcium channel blocker overdose, hypoparathyroidism, and as an antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity, particularly during labor and delivery. It rapidly restores normal calcium levels, which is essential for healthy heart, nerve, muscle, and bone function.

Is Calcium Gluconate Safe During Pregnancy? Yes, calcium gluconate injections are considered safe during pregnancy when administered under medical supervision. It's commonly used to counteract magnesium sulfate toxicity in pregnant women, especially during preeclampsia or eclampsia, under strict hospital care.

Calcium gluconate injections work within minutes when administered intravenously, making them ideal for emergency situations requiring immediate correction of calcium deficiency. Effects can be seen as early as 1–3 minutes after injection.

Acute hypocalcemia Magnesium sulfate toxicity during pregnancy/labor (e.g., eclampsia) Cardiac arrest or arrhythmias due to hyperkalemia Calcium channel blocker overdose Parathyroid disorders

The frequency depends on the severity of calcium deficiency or clinical situation. Only administer as directed by a healthcare professional, with follow-up blood calcium monitoring.

It’s crucial to reverse magnesium sulfate overdose in pregnant women, preventing or stopping seizures, and supporting maternal health during high-risk deliveries.

Always administered under medical supervision Monitor cardiac function, especially with IV use Adjust dose for kidney disease or heart block Never administer intramuscularly or subcutaneously due to risk of tissue necrosis

Inspect vial for clarity and particulates Use a sterile syringe and aseptic technique Dilute in compatible IV fluids if required Administer slowly IV to avoid cardiac complications

Mild discomfort may occur at the injection site; intravenous administration is typically well-tolerated. Always inform your healthcare provider about any discomfort.

Cost can range from $5 to $30 per vial depending on dosage (usually 10ml at 10% strength) and location. Hospital/pharmacy prices may slightly differ.

Flushing, sweating, or warmth Nausea or metallic taste Injection site pain or irritation Serious but rare: Cardiac arrhythmias, hypotension, tissue necrosis (with extravasation)