Calcium carbonate is an ionic compound used as a calcium supplement or antacid used for the symptomatic relief of heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach. It is a basic compound that acts by neutralizing hydrochloric acid in gastric secretions.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed
Calcium carbonate is a basic inorganic salt that acts by neutralizing hydrochloric acid in gastric secretions. It also inhibits the action of pepsin by increasing the pH and via adsorption. Cytoprotective effects may occur through increases in bicarbonate ion (HCO3-) and prostaglandins. Neutralization of hydrochloric acid results in the formation of calcium chloride, carbon dioxide and water. Approximately 90% of calcium chloride is converted to insoluble calcium salts (e.g. calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate).
- Primary indication
- For relief of heartburn and acid indigestion.Curator reviewed · 48 structured indications
- Formula / weight
- CCaO3 · 100.087 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 1996 · United States, 2000
- Also known as
- Calcium carbonate (1:1) · Precipitated calcium carbonate
- Code names
- CI 77220 · E 170 · E-170(I) · INS-170(I) · INS NO.170(I) · NDI 443
- Brand names
Resolves to
VTYYLEPIZMXCLO-UHFFFAOYSA-LSMILES[Ca++].[O-]C([O-])=OWhat you can answer from here — as of July 09, 2026
Which other approved drugs treat the same conditions as Calcium carbonate, and which companies have late-stage candidates in those indications?
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