Calcium Chloride FAQs

Overview

Calcium chloride helps to regulate the levels of other minerals in the body. This makes it an important part of keeping the body functioning properly. Calcium is the fifth most abundant element in the body, and it is the major component of your bones. Calcium is essential to the function of our nervous and muscular systems, the coagulation of blood, and for normal contractility of the heart. Calcium also affects the secretory activity of endocrine and exocrine glands. In addition, it plays a crucial role in intracellular signaling, neurotransmitter release and maintaining cell membrane potential. In water, calcium chloride breaks down into calcium and chloride ions. These ions are regular components of body fluids and depend on other physiological mechanisms to maintain the balance between one’s intake and output. Approximately 80% of body calcium gets excreted in the feces as insoluble salts, and the remaining 20% is excreted through the urine.

What Is Calcium Chloride Prescribed For?

Calcium chloride injections may be used in the treatment of hypocalcemia (low calcium), hyperkalemia (high potassium) and hypermagnesemia (high magnesium). It is also used in the immediate treatment of hypocalcemic tetany, which causes muscle spasms due to abnormally low levels of calcium in the body. Additionally, calcium chloride is used as an additive in cardiac resuscitation, helping to stabilize the heart during instances of arrhythmias or cardiac arrest. It is sometimes administered in critical situations to improve the contractility of the heart. In some cases, calcium chloride is also utilized in the management of calcium channel blocker toxicity.

Benefits of Calcium Chloride

Calcium chloride acts as an electrolyte, helping your body maintain fluid balance during activities and helps you to maintain proper muscle and nerve functioning. Calcium chloride also helps to maintain bone health and prevent muscle spasms. Moreover, by helping to correct imbalances of calcium and other minerals, calcium chloride can be essential in treating certain life-threatening conditions. It is also beneficial in promoting the normal function of enzymes and hormones.