Calcium Chloride

Name	Calcium Chloride
Uses	Electrolyte supplement used to support nerve conduction, muscle contraction, and bone health. In wellness settings, it may be included in IV formulations to support calcium levels and prevent deficiency in select patients. It can also help balance electrolytes in custom IV blends.
Route Of Administration	Intravenous (IV)
Frequency Of Use	Typically administered as needed when calcium supplementation is indicated based on clinical assessment. In wellness protocols, it may be given once weekly or less often, depending on individual needs.
Concentration(s)	Common concentration: 100 mg/mL (calcium chloride).
Maximum Dosage (Day, Wk) (g/mL)/mL	Maximum dose per infusion: 1 g (10 mL of 100 mg/mL solution). Maximum weekly dose: 2 g (20 mL). Higher doses are not recommended for elective wellness patients due to risk of hypercalcemia and cardiovascular effects.
Contraindications	Hypercalcemia. Severe renal impairment. Ventricular fibrillation. Known hypersensitivity to calcium chloride or any formulation component. Caution in patients with cardiac arrhythmias, digitalis therapy, or sarcoidosis.
Possible Side Effects	Flushing, nausea, and metallic taste during infusion. Injection site irritation or burning if extravasation occurs. Hypercalcemia symptoms (confusion, weakness, constipation) with repeated use. Rare: allergic reaction (rash, itching, anaphylaxis).
Compatibility With Other Drugs	Calcium chloride is incompatible with phosphate-containing solutions (e.g., sodium phosphate). It may also precipitate with magnesium sulfate if not properly diluted. Always verify compatibility before adding to multi-ingredient IVs.
Allergies	True allergy to calcium chloride is rare, but sensitivity to preservatives in compounded formulations is possible.
Administration Time	Typical administration time: Slow IV push over 5 to 10 minutes, or infused over 30 to 60 minutes if combined in a larger bag.
IV Dosing	For electrolyte replenishment: 500 mg to 1 g IV as needed. Dosing should be individualized based on serum calcium levels and clinical symptoms.
IM/Push	Slow IV push is acceptable if properly diluted. IM administration is not recommended due to risk of tissue irritation and necrosis.
What To Do If Adverse Reaction Occurs	1. Stop the infusion immediately if a reaction occurs. 2. Assess vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation). 3. If flushing, nausea, or metallic taste occurs, slow the infusion rate and provide supportive care. 4. If extravasation occurs, stop infusion and follow local infiltration management protocols (may include application of cold compress and elevation). 5. For allergic reactions (rash, itching, shortness of breath), administer antihistamines and consider epinephrine if severe. 6. If hypercalcemia is suspected (nausea, confusion, muscle weakness), check serum calcium and provide hydration and supportive care. 7. If symptoms persist or worsen, arrange for emergency transfer to a higher level of care (call 911 if necessary).