CalciumOsteoporosis (bone loss) is the primary disease associated with long-term calcium deficiency. It may be associated with bone pain and spinal deformity. Depleted levels can also cause muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, and depression.
Calcium carbonate antacids may elevate calcium levels, depending upon the circumstances of use. Consult your health care provider.
CopperAlthough copper deficiency is rare, signs and symptoms of long-term depletion of copper include anemia, changes in the structure and appearance of hair, heart damage, growth retardation, impaired bone formation, osteoporosis (bone loss), and emphysema (lung disease).
IronDepleted levels of iron may lead to anemia and weakened immune function. In the event of anemia, symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin color, and possibly irregular heartbeat.
MagnesiumMagnesium deficiency affects calcium and vitamin D levels in the body and may be associated with muscle cramps, heart irregularities, insomnia, high blood pressure, diabetes, and osteoporosis (bone loss).
PhosphorusAlthough phosphorus deficiency is rare, long-term low levels are associated with muscle weakness, bone pain, mental confusion, anorexia, anemia, increased susceptibility to infection, respiratory difficulties, seizures, and even death.
PotassiumSymptoms of potassium deficiency include loss of appetite, nausea, drowsiness, feelings of apprehension, excessive thirst, irrational behavior, fatigue, muscle pain, and weakness (usually of the lower limbs). Severe cases may lead to irregular heartbeat.
ZincSigns and symptoms of zinc deficiency include loss of appetite or sense of taste, impaired immunity, growth retardation, skin changes, and increased susceptibility to infection.
The selected depletions information presented here identifies some of the nutrients that may be depleted by certain medications. The signs and symptoms associated with nutrient deficiency may also indicate conditions other than nutrient deficiency. If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms mentioned, it does not necessarily mean that you are nutrient deficient. Nutrient depletion depends upon several factors, including your medical history, diet, and lifestyle as well as the length of time you have been taking the medication. Please consult your health care provider. Your health care provider can best assess and address your individual health care needs, and determine if you are at risk for nutrient depletions from these medications as well as others not listed here.
Ames BN. Micronutrient deficiencies: A major cause of DNA damage. Ann NY Acad Sci. 2000;889:87-106.
Cashman K, Flynn A. Optimal nutrition: calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Proc Nutr Soc. 1999;58:477-487.
Covington T, ed. Nonprescription Drug Therapy Guiding Patient Self-Care. St Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons;1999:467-545.
Falchuk KH. Disturbances in Trace Elements. In: Fauci A, Braunwald E, Isselbacher KJ, et al, eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 14th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Companies Health Professional Division; 1998:490-491.
Faloon, WW. Drug production of intestinal malabsorption. N.Y. State J. Med. 70:2, 189, 1970.
Hambidge M. Human zinc deficiency. J Nutr. 2000;130(5S Suppl):1344S-1349S.
National Research Council. Recommended Dietary Allowances. 10th ed. Washington, DC: National Academy Press; 1989.
Pelton R, LaValle J, Hawkins E, et al. Drug-Induced Nutrient Depletion Handbook. 2nd ed. Hudson, OH: LexiComp, Inc.; 2001.
Potts JT. Diseases of the parathyroid gland and other hyper- and hypocalcemic disorders. In: Fauci AS, Braunwald E, Isselbacher KJ, et al, eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 14th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Companies Health Professional Division; 1998:2241.
Roe DA. Diet and Drug Interactions. New York, Van Nostrand Reinhold, pp. 85-86, 1989.
Spencer H,. et al. Effect of small amounts of antacids on calcium, phosphorus, and fluoride metabolism in man. Gastroenterol. 68:990, 1975.
