Out of all of the types of organic and inorganic calcium salts, calcium orotate is the most easily absorbed commercial calcium supplement available, providing 90-95 percent absorption. This is the mineral calcium bound with the molecule orotic acid; together they form a highly absorbent mineral salt. Taken as a supplement, it delivers calcium to incremental cells without the common side effects of other calcium supplements. The supplement is commonly prescribed to patients who are suffering from bone loss, osteoporosis, rickets or hypoparathyroidism.
Calcium is an essential element for proper development and maintenance of the human body. Besides building strong bones and teeth, calcium helps the blood clot, promotes colon health and protects bone tissue as the body ages. If there is not sufficient calcium in the body, the body will take calcium from the bones, weakening the bones and possibly causing bone diseases such as rickets and osteoporosis.
Sources of calcium in foods include dairy products, leafy green vegetables such as kale and cabbage, salmon and beans. Some patients might not receive sufficient amounts of calcium through diet alone and will require a supplement such as calcium orotate. Patients who are suffering from degenerative bone diseases such as osteoporosis can take supplements containing this substance to treat the condition and help prevent excessive bone loss.
Calcium orotate is generally prescribed as an oral supplement, either in liquid or chewable form or as an effervescent tablet taken with water. Common side effects include digestive problems such as constipation and indigestion. More serious side effects in sensitive patients include headache, weight loss, bone or muscle pain and nausea. Other serious side effects include mood changes, increased thirst, increased urination and difficulty breathing. Some patients might develop allergic reactions, and people who are suffering from hypercalcemia, or high calcium levels, should avoid taking calcium orotate.
Some of the more advanced and most effective calcium orotate supplements add magnesium to the dosage. Calcium in foods is always paired with magnesium. Magnesium has been shown to aid the absorption of calcium and reduce unwanted side effects. The presence of magnesium in a calcium orotate supplement also helps prevent the risk of calcium deposits in arterial walls, a condition that can cause circulatory and heart problems.
As with any supplement, moderation is crucial. For most healthy adults, 2,500 milligrams of calcium is the recommended daily maximum. Side effects from excessive calcium might include kidney toxicity or kidney failure, irregular heart rhythm, kidney stones and cancer. Powerful calcium supplements such as calcium orotate might interact with other medications, either interfering with their effectiveness or causing serious side effects.
