What is the Difference Between Citracal and Caltrate?

Citracal and Caltrate are both calcium supplements that help support bone health, but they contain different forms of calcium: Citracal contains calcium citrate, while Caltrate contains calcium carbonate. The key differences between Citracal and Caltrate are:

1. Elemental Calcium Content: Citracal tablets contain only 21% of elemental calcium, while Caltrate tablets have 40% elemental calcium. This means that Caltrate provides more calcium per tablet than Citracal.
2. Absorption: Citracal dissolves slightly better in water than Caltrate, and your body can absorb 20% more calcium from Citracal than from the same amount of Caltrate. However, some studies showed no significant difference in overall absorption levels between the two calcium forms.
3. Stomach Acid Dependency: Unlike Caltrate, Citracal is not dependent on the presence of stomach acid for absorption, so it can be taken with or without food.
4. Side Effects: Citracal causes fewer intestinal side effects than Caltrate, such as constipation, intestinal gas, and bloating.
5. Drug Interactions: Both Citracal and Caltrate have the same potential for drug interactions.

When choosing between Citracal and Caltrate, it's essential to consider factors such as your individual calcium needs, absorption preferences, and any potential drug interactions. It's always best to consult with your physician before starting any calcium supplement regimen.

Comparative Table: Citracal vs Caltrate

The main differences between Citracal and Caltrate are the sources of calcium and their absorption characteristics. Here is a table comparing the two:

Citracal contains calcium citrate, which is less calcium-dense than Caltrate's calcium carbonate. Citracal dissolves slightly better in water than Caltrate, and the body can absorb 20% more calcium from Citracal than from the same amount of Caltrate. Calcium citrate is not dependent on stomach acid for absorption, so it can be taken with or without food. On the other hand, Caltrate provides a smaller-sized tablet with about twice the amount of elemental calcium as equal amounts of calcium citrate.