PhosLo Gelcap Side Effects

Generic name: calcium acetate

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 1, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about PhosLo Gelcap Side Effects associated with calcium acetate. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name PhosLo Gelcap.

Applies to calcium acetate: oral capsule, oral solution, oral tablet.

Serious side effects of PhosLo Gelcap

Along with its needed effects, calcium acetate (the active ingredient contained in PhosLo Gelcap) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking calcium acetate:

More common side effects

• abdominal or stomach pain
• confusion
• constipation
• depression
• dry mouth
• full or partial loss of consciousness
• headache
• incoherent speech
• increased urination
• loss of appetite
• metallic taste
• muscle weakness
• nausea or vomiting
• thirst
• unusual tiredness
• weight loss

Incidence not known

• swelling

Other side effects of PhosLo Gelcap

Some side effects of calcium acetate may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• diarrhea

Less common side effects

• itching

Incidence not known

• dizziness
• weakness

For healthcare professionals

Applies to calcium acetate: compounding powder, injectable solution, oral capsule, oral liquid, oral tablet.

General adverse events

The most common adverse events were hypercalcemia, nausea, and diarrhea.^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Very common (10% or more): Hypercalcemia (16.3%)^[Ref]

Hypercalcemia was usually asymptomatic or manifested as constipation, anorexia, nausea, and vomiting, and in 0.1% of patients caused confusion, delirium, stupor, or coma.^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Very common (10% or more): Nausea (14%), diarrhea (13.2%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Vomiting
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Constipation^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Pruritus^[Ref]

Other

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Soft tissue calcification
• Postmarketing reports: Edema, weakness^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Postmarketing reports: Dizziness^[Ref]

Further information

PhosLo Gelcap side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer