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ascorbate calcium - oral, Ester-C

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GENERIC NAME: ASCORBATE CALCIUM - ORAL (a-SKOR-bate KAL-see-um)

BRAND NAME(S): Ester-C

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Ascorbate calcium is a form of vitamin C that is used to prevent or treat low levels of vitamin C in people who do not get enough of the vitamin from their diets. This product also contains calcium. Most people who eat a normal diet do not need extra vitamin C. Low levels of vitamin C can result in a condition called scurvy. Scurvy may cause symptoms such as rash, muscle weakness, joint pain, tiredness, or tooth loss.Vitamin C plays an important role in the body. It is needed to maintain the health of skin, cartilage, teeth, bone, and blood vessels. It is also used to protect your body's cells from damage. It is known as an antioxidant.OTHER This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.Vitamin C may also be used with other vitamins for a certain eye condition (macular degeneration).

HOW TO USE: Take this product by mouth with food, usually 1 to 2 times daily. Follow all directions on the product package, or take as directed by your doctor. Take this product with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise.If you are taking the chewable tablets, chew them thoroughly and then swallow. If you are taking the sustained-release tablets, swallow the medication whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets. If you are taking the powder, mix it thoroughly in the proper amount of liquid and stir well. Drink all of the liquid immediately. Do not prepare a supply for future use.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.Use this product regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.If you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.

SIDE EFFECTS: Diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps/pain, or heartburn may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.If your doctor has directed you to use this product, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this product do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: painful urination, pink/bloody urine.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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