What is the Difference Between Calcium Gluconate and Calcium Chloride?

Calcium gluconate and calcium chloride are two commonly used compounds for the correction of hypocalcemia. They have some differences in terms of bioavailability, ionization, and side effects:

1. Bioavailability: Calcium chloride is more bioavailable than calcium gluconate, resulting in greater increases in serum ionized calcium concentrations. Calcium chloride provides 3 times more elemental calcium than an equivalent amount of calcium gluconate.
2. Ionization: A study comparing ionization of calcium chloride and calcium gluconate found that equal elemental calcium doses of both compounds were equivalent in their ability to raise calcium concentration during normocalcemic states in children and dogs. The changes in calcium concentration following calcium administration were short-lived (minutes), and the rapidity of ionization seemed to exclude hepatic metabolism as an important factor in the process.
3. Side Effects: Calcium chloride is more irritating and is more likely to cause tissue necrosis with extravasation. Calcium gluconate, on the other hand, must be hepatically metabolized before its associated calcium becomes bioavailable, so in the setting of hemodynamic instability or poor liver function, calcium chloride is preferable.

In conclusion, both calcium gluconate and calcium chloride can be used to correct hypocalcemia, but calcium chloride has a higher bioavailability and is more likely to cause tissue necrosis. Calcium gluconate requires hepatic metabolism, making it less suitable for situations with poor liver function or hemodynamic instability. Equivalent doses of both compounds can raise calcium concentrations effectively, but the side effects and potential complications should be considered when choosing between the two.

Comparative Table: Calcium Gluconate vs Calcium Chloride

Here is a table comparing the differences between Calcium Gluconate and Calcium Chloride:

Please note that the information provided is based on the search results and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns related to these compounds.