Calcium Chloride

Calcium Chloride Injection, USP, 10% is indicated: In the treatment of hypocalcemia in conditions requiring a prompt increase in plasma calcium levels (e.g., neonatal tetany and tetany due to parathyroid deficiency, vitamin D deficiency and alkalosis) and for prevention of hypocalcemia during exchange transfusions. As adjunctive therapy in the management of acute symptoms in lead colic. In the treatment of magnesium intoxication due to overdosage of magnesium sulfate.

In severe hyperkalemia, to combat deleterious effects on electrocardiographic (ECG) function, pending correction of the potassium level in the extracellular fluid. In cardiac resuscitation, particularly after open heart surgery, when epinephrine fails to improve weak or ineffective myocardial contractions.

Calcium chloride is contraindicated for cardiac resuscitation in the presence of ventricular fibrillation.

Calcium chloride should be injected into a large vein very slowly, as it may cause peripheral vasodilatation and a cutaneous burning sensation. A moderate fall in blood pressure due to vasodilatation may attend the injection. Since calcium chloride is an acidifying salt, it is usually undesirable in the treatment of hypocalcemia or renal insufficiency.

Drug Interactions Because of the danger involved in the simultaneous use of calcium salts and drugs of the digitalis group, a digitalized patient should not receive an intravenous injection of a calcium compound unless the indications are clearly defined. Calcium salts should not generally be mixed with carbonates, phosphates, sulfates or tartrates in parenteral admixtures.

Rapid I.V. injection may cause the patient to complain of tingling sensations, a calcium taste, a sense of oppression or “heat wave.” Injections of calcium chloride are accompanied by peripheral vasodilation as well as a local “burning” sensation, and there may be a moderate fall in blood pressure.