
Calcium Gluconate
Calcium Gluconate is a calcium salt of gluconic acid appearing as a white, odorless, crystalline powder or colorless crystals. It is highly soluble in water and commonly used as a calcium supplement in pharmaceuticals and food products. Calcium Gluconate plays a critical role in medicine for treating calcium deficiencies, hypocalcemia, and as an antidote for hydrofluoric acid burns. Its excellent bioavailability makes it a preferred calcium source in oral and intravenous formulations. Additionally, it is utilized in food fortification and cosmetic applications due to its safety and compatibility.
Calcium Gluconate
Primary Uses
- Pharmaceuticals
- Used as a calcium supplement to treat calcium deficiencies and hypocalcemia.
- Administered intravenously in emergency cases like cardiac arrest due to hyperkalemia or calcium channel blocker overdose.
- Employed as an antidote for hydrofluoric acid burns and toxicity.
- Incorporated in oral supplements and fortified food products for bone health and metabolic functions.
- Food & Beverage
- Used as a food additive and mineral fortifier in beverages, dairy products, and nutritional supplements.
- Acts as a firming agent in canned vegetables and processed foods.
- Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Utilized in skin care formulations for its calcium content and mild astringent properties.
- Included in toothpaste and mouthwash formulations to promote dental health.
Secondary Uses
- Veterinary Medicine
- Used in animal supplements to prevent calcium deficiency and metabolic disorders.
- Industrial Applications
- Occasionally used in fermentation processes and as a coagulating agent in some manufacturing applications.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Calcium D-gluconate
- Common/Trade Name: Calcium Gluconate
- CAS Number: 299-28-5
- HS Code: 2836.50.00
- Molecular Formula: C12H22CaO14
- Synonyms:
- Calcium D-gluconate
- Calcium gluconate USP
- Calcium (2R,3S,4R,5R)-2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxyhexanoate
- D-Calcium gluconate
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Crystalline powder or colorless crystals
- Color & Odor: White; odorless
- Melting Point: Approximately 190–200°C (decomposes)
- Boiling Point: Not applicable (decomposes)
- Density: About 1.7 g/cm³
- Solubility: Freely soluble in water; insoluble in ethanol and organic solvents
- pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (aqueous solution)
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions; hygroscopic
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous; generally recognized as safe (GRAS)
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 1
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: No established OSHA or ACGIH limits; handle with standard precautions
- Toxicity: Low acute toxicity; excessive intake may cause hypercalcemia
- Reactivity: Stable; avoid strong acids and bases
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place protected from moisture
- Container Type: Airtight, moisture-resistant containers such as HDPE or glass bottles
- Shelf Life: Typically 3–5 years when stored properly
- Special Handling: Avoid dust generation; use PPE during handling
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Approved as a calcium supplement and food additive (GRAS)
- Pharmacopoeia Compliance: Listed in USP, BP, EP
- Transportation: Not classified as hazardous
- Waste Disposal: Dispose as non-hazardous pharmaceutical or food waste according to regulations
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Minimal environmental impact
- Persistence: Biodegradable and naturally occurring mineral
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Biodegradable
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Gloves
- Safety goggles
- Dust mask (if powder is handled in large amounts)
Handling Measures:
- Avoid inhalation of dust
- Prevent prolonged skin and eye contact
- Work in well-ventilated areas
Storage Measures:
- Keep container tightly closed
- Protect from humidity and moisture
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Generally safe in recommended doses; seek medical attention if large amounts ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂ as appropriate for surrounding fire
- Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective gear and breathing apparatus if needed
Decomposition Products: May produce carbon oxides and calcium oxides under extreme heat