The use of calcium carbonate in the pharmaceutical industry is considered a fundamental element in the manufacturing process and in drug formulations. It also provides multiple benefits in various industrial applications.
Calcium carbonate is a widely known and commonly used chemical substance in both the medical and pharmaceutical fields, thanks to its beneficial properties in treating several health conditions. Additionally, it plays a major role as an essential dietary supplement in maintaining healthy bones and teeth, and in treating stomach problems such as acidity.
Calcium carbonate naturally occurs in the form of carbon deposits, with well-known sources including limestone, marble, and chalk. It is widely used as an excipient (inactive substance) as well as a calcium supplement in pharmaceutical preparations. Being a natural, non-toxic substance that is easily compatible with other drug components, the use of calcium carbonate in the pharmaceutical industry is of great importance and necessity. Through its role in the pharmaceutical field and its health benefits, many therapeutic applications of this compound have been discovered.
Properties of Calcium Carbonate
This inorganic compound has several physical and chemical characteristics, such as:
Low solubility in water
when dissolved in water containing carbon dioxide, it converts into calcium bicarbonate.
Thermal decomposition
upon heating, calcium carbonate releases calcium oxide and carbon dioxide, with calcination occurring at temperatures above 800°C.
Reaction with acids
for example, calcium carbonate reacts vigorously with hydrochloric acid, releasing carbon dioxide gas.
Uses of Calcium Carbonate in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Calcium Supplement
One of the most important uses of calcium carbonate in the pharmaceutical industry is as a source of calcium in dietary supplements, especially for individuals suffering from a deficiency in this vital mineral. Calcium plays a central role in building bones and teeth, as well as supporting muscle, nerve, and heart functions. It is commonly recommended for the elderly and postmenopausal women to prevent osteoporosis.
Antacid
Calcium carbonate is used in pharmaceutical antacid drugs to treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and indigestion. It works by neutralizing excess stomach acid, thereby relieving heartburn.
Tablet Excipient
In the pharmaceutical industry, calcium carbonate serves as a filler in tablets and capsules, helping to adjust weight, volume, and cohesion. It also contributes to improving the stability of drug formulations.
Other uses include
Used in toothpaste formulations to strengthen tooth enamel.
Sometimes added to calcium supplements for children or pregnant women.
Side Effects and Precautions
Although calcium carbonate is safe in moderate doses, excessive use may cause:
Constipation
Bloating
Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood)
Caution is advised for patients with kidney problems or those taking medications that may interact with calcium, such as certain antibiotics and diuretics.
Benefits of Calcium Carbonate in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Cost-effective and widely available: Being a natural, abundant material, it is inexpensive and readily accessible, reducing production costs for pharmaceutical companies.
Improved tablet stability
Helps maintain the structure of tablets during packaging, transport, and storage.
Enhanced absorption
In some formulations, it aids in improving the absorption of nutrients and drugs in the digestive system.
Key Pharmaceutical Products Containing Calcium Carbonate
Calcium supplements
Antacid tablets and chewable tablets
Multivitamin formulations
Over-the-counter indigestion remedies
Nutritional supplements
Calcium carbonate plays a vital and multifaceted role in the pharmaceutical industry. It not only enhances bone health and improves tablet structure but also contributes to the formulation of numerous pharmaceutical products. It is incorporated into drug preparations not only for improving patient health outcomes but also for simplifying manufacturing processes, making it a reliable and essential choice for pharmaceutical producers. Ensuring a high-quality supply of calcium carbonate is therefore critical to support the production of safe, effective, and affordable medicines.
Method for Preparing a Pharmaceutical Formulation of Calcium Carbonate
This invention belongs to the technical field of pharmaceuticals and relates to a method of preparing a formulation of calcium carbonate. The steps include:
Mixing calcium carbonate with coloring agents and binders.
Granulation (converting the mixture into granules).
Drying the wet granules at 60°C.
Mixing the dried granules with fillers, flavoring agents, and lubricants.
Compressing the mixture into tablets.
The resulting chewable calcium carbonate tablets maintain their taste and hardness throughout their shelf life. They solve the problem of hardness increase and poor taste caused by moisture absorption of sugar alcohol excipients after opening the packaging. This technique is suitable for industrial production and demonstrates high practical applicability.
