Safety

General information, not medical advice

Your prescriber and the leaflet in your pack know your situation. This page does not.

  • Follow your prescriber and the leaflet
  • Don't start, stop, or change a dose on your own
  • Doses and warnings differ by country and product
Facts checked by a personSourcesFull disclaimer

Shelcal Tablet: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

· 3 min read

Shelcal Tablet: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates
Generic nameCalcium Carbonate + Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)
Drug classCalcium and Vitamin D3 supplement
FormsTablet
Shelcal Tablet: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates product

Quick overview

Shelcal Tablet contains Calcium Carbonate and Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) and belongs to the calcium and Vitamin D3 supplement class. It is used to prevent and treat calcium and Vitamin D3 deficiencies and to support bone health. It may cause mild side effects such as constipation or nausea, and certain precautions apply for pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney, and liver conditions.

What is Shelcal Tablet

Shelcal 500 is a nutritional supplement containing elemental calcium (from calcium carbonate, sourced from powdered oyster shell) and Vitamin D3. It is used to prevent and treat calcium and Vitamin D3 deficiencies and to support bone health.

Shelcal Tablet uses

  • Supports bone strength and bone mineral density
  • Manages calcium deficiency and low blood calcium levels
  • Helps manage conditions like osteoporosis, osteomalacia, rickets, and hypoparathyroidism
  • Supports muscle contraction and nerve transmission
  • Supports healthy immune system function
  • Can be used during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postmenopause to meet increased calcium demands, under medical guidance

Benefits of Shelcal Tablet

  • Helps promote bone health
  • Calcium strengthens the bones and joints
  • Vitamin D assists in calcium absorption
  • Maintains a healthy immune system
  • Assists in managing muscle strength
  • Supports joint health
  • May help reduce muscle cramps caused by low calcium levels

How Shelcal Tablet works

The calcium in this tablet provides the mineral needed for strong bones and teeth, while Vitamin D3 helps the body absorb that calcium from the intestine more effectively.

Shelcal Tablet dosage

Take as advised by your healthcare professional. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water or milk; do not chew or crush it. Try to take the medicine at the same time each day. Take with meals to improve absorption. Do not take more than the recommended amount. In children, use only after consulting a healthcare professional.

Age groupDose
Children under 1 yearOnly use if prescribed by a doctor
1–8 Years1 tablet daily (as advised)
Adults1 tablet daily
Older Adults (65+ years)1 tablet daily or as advised by doctor

Available forms and strengths

Tablet

Side effects of Shelcal Tablet

Common

  • Constipation
  • Bloating or gas
  • Mild nausea or stomach upset
  • Headache or unusual tiredness in rare cases

Serious

  • Constipation, bloating, and gas
  • Nausea, stomach discomfort, or abdominal pain
  • Increased thirst or high calcium levels (with excess use)
  • Rarely, allergic reactions or kidney stone risk

Warnings and precautions

  • Pregnant women should check with their doctor before taking this supplement to make sure it's safe and to get the right dose. Breastfeeding women should check with their doctor before taking this supplement to make sure it's safe. People with kidney problems should talk to their doctor before starting this supplement. Tell your doctor if you have liver disorders before starting this medicine.
  • Avoid excessive use without medical advice. Inform your doctor if you have kidney stones or kidney problems. Maintain proper hydration during use. Take carefully with other calcium or vitamin D supplements.
  • Do not take more than the recommended dose of calcium and Vitamin D3, as taking too much can cause unwanted health effects.
  • Do not chew or crush the tablet; swallow it whole with water.
  • Tell your doctor about all other medicines and supplements you take, since calcium can interact with certain drugs like antibiotics and thyroid medicine.
  • If you are already taking another calcium, Vitamin D, or multivitamin supplement, tell your healthcare professional before starting this product to avoid taking too much of the same nutrients.
  • Do not take this supplement if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

Storage

  • Store below 30°C
  • Store in a cool, dry and dark place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture
  • Keep out of the reach of children

When to see a doctor

  • Stop use and see your doctor if you notice any side effects.
  • If side effects like constipation, nausea, or stomach discomfort continue, contact your doctor.
  • If you experience any unusual or ongoing symptoms after starting this supplement, consult your healthcare professional.

Alternatives

  • Caltrate
  • Calcimax
  • Ostocal

Watch the video

Video: Shelcal Tablet: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

FAQs

What is Shelcal Tablet used for?

It is used to prevent and treat calcium and Vitamin D3 deficiencies, support bone health, and manage conditions like osteoporosis, osteomalacia, rickets, and hypoparathyroidism.

What is the dosage of Shelcal Tablet for adults?

Adults are generally advised to take 1 tablet daily, swallowed whole with a full glass of water or milk, preferably with meals, as directed by a healthcare professional.

What are the common side effects of Shelcal Tablet?

Common side effects include constipation, bloating or gas, mild nausea or stomach upset, and rarely headache or unusual tiredness.

Can pregnant or breastfeeding women take Shelcal Tablet?

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should check with their doctor before taking this supplement to ensure it is safe and to get the right dose.

Is Shelcal Tablet safe for people with kidney problems?

People with kidney problems should talk to their doctor before starting this supplement, as it may increase the risk of kidney stones.

General information, not medical advice

Your prescriber and the leaflet in your pack know your situation. This page does not.

  • Follow your prescriber and the leaflet
  • Don't start, stop, or change a dose on your own
  • Doses and warnings differ by country and product
Facts checked by a personSourcesFull disclaimer

Sources

  1. https://www.truemeds.in/otc/shelcal-500-tablet-30-tm-tacr1-111656
  2. International Journal of Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, September 2019, Vol 8, Issue 9
  3. Netmeds.com product page - Shelcal-500 Tablet 15's
  4. Blinkit product page - Shelcal 500mg Tablets