We examined the benefits of calcium dobesilate for patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), particularly focusing on how it impacts symptoms like leg cramps. In a systematic evaluation of ten different clinical trials involving 778 patients, we compared the effects of calcium dobesilate to a placebo.
Our analysis found that calcium dobesilate significantly reduced night cramps, helping patients nearly twice as much as those who received a placebo. The number needed to treat for this relief was calculated to be 8, indicating that for every eight patients treated with calcium dobesilate, one experienced noticeable improvement.
Moreover, patients also reported less discomfort, with a number needed to treat of 4 for that symptom. Interestingly, we noted that those with more severe symptoms experienced even greater relief, suggesting that calcium dobesilate is particularly effective for patients with advanced CVI. However, both doses tested—1,000 mg and 1,500 mg—proved equally effective, which is good news as it suggests that a lower dose might suffice.
Additionally, we found that adverse events were not significantly different from the placebo group, indicating a favorable safety profile. While calcium dobesilate shows promise, we acknowledge the need for further studies to solidify these findings and explore its efficacy in various CVI stages.
We assessed the effectiveness of calcium in alleviating leg cramps, a common issue faced by many women in the later stages of pregnancy. Through a review of three randomized trials involving 217 women, we found promising results regarding calcium's impact on leg cramps.
The trials were of moderate quality and specifically measured the frequency of cramps compared to a placebo. Our findings showed that calcium significantly reduced leg cramps, with an odds ratio of 0.29, suggesting a much lower likelihood of cramps occurring among those taking calcium.
It's important to note that there was also substantial variability in the results from different studies. Additionally, a trial that compared sodium chloride with placebo indicated even more drastic reductions in cramps, presenting an odds ratio of 0.08.
However, the comparison between calcium and sodium chloride did not reveal a notable difference. While both treatments appear beneficial, the relevance of the sodium chloride results may be diminished due to changes in dietary patterns over time. Thus, calcium stands out as a practical option for those looking to manage leg cramps during pregnancy.
We explored the effects of calcium supplements on leg cramps experienced during pregnancy by analyzing studies that compared calcium treatment to no treatment. The research included one trial with 43 women, evaluating how well calcium helped alleviate leg cramps.
The findings suggested that women taking calcium were more likely to experience fewer leg cramps after treatment compared to those who didn't receive any treatment. Specifically, a higher proportion of women reported having no leg cramps at all after taking calcium. However, the evidence was classified as very low quality, making it difficult to draw strong conclusions.
Overall, while calcium appeared to offer some benefit in reducing leg cramps, the lack of rigorous studies and clear outcomes means we should approach these findings with caution. Further research is needed to confirm these effects and establish a clearer understanding of how calcium works for pregnant women dealing with leg cramps.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Stable joints observed
I have been using 21st Century Calcium Supplement 600 for several weeks and I'm pleased with the results. Each tablet contains 600mg of calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. I've found them easy to swallow without any stomach upset. Since starting this supplement, I’ve noticed my joints feel more stable and I’ve had no issues with muscle cramps, which are often linked to a lack of calcium.
Read More
7.5
Improvement in cramps
1 people found this helpful
Generous portions and reasonable prices encouraged me to buy this calcium supplement, as my multivitamins weren't enough. The large pills are convenient since I only need to take one at a time. After a period of use, I've experienced no major body issues, aside from occasional leg cramps at night. This situation has improved, and I will continue using the product.
Read More
9
Leg pain relief
My uncle has started taking this, and he claims his legs have stopped aching. I would recommend it for purchase as the packaging is very advantageous.
We observed an interesting case regarding the effects of calcium treatment on leg cramps related to a chemotherapy drug called oxaliplatin. In this case, a 62-year-old woman undergoing palliative treatment for stage IV colon cancer experienced acute neurotoxicity symptoms. Notably, thirty minutes after her first infusion of oxaliplatin, which she received in her left arm, she developed cramps and paresthesia in her right leg.
As part of her treatment for these symptoms, intravenous calcium gluconate was administered alongside magnesium sulfate. This combination helped alleviate her leg cramping and associated symptoms within three hours. However, while calcium was part of the treatment regimen, it is important to note that its isolated effectiveness on leg cramps is unclear due to its concurrent administration with magnesium.
Consequently, while we saw improvement in the patient's symptoms, it is difficult to attribute these results solely to calcium. Instead, it suggests that magnesium might be playing a significant role as well. Future investigations could help clarify the specific contributions of calcium in treating leg cramps related to neurotoxicity and other conditions.
Read More
9
Calcium dobesilate reduces leg cramps
Calcium dobesilate for chronic venous insufficiency: a systematic review.
We examined the benefits of calcium dobesilate for patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), particularly focusing on how it impacts symptoms like leg cramps. In a systematic evaluation of ten different clinical trials involving 778 patients, we compared the effects of calcium dobesilate to a placebo.
Our analysis found that calcium dobesilate significantly reduced night cramps, helping patients nearly twice as much as those who received a placebo. The number needed to treat for this relief was calculated to be 8, indicating that for every eight patients treated with calcium dobesilate, one experienced noticeable improvement.
Moreover, patients also reported less discomfort, with a number needed to treat of 4 for that symptom. Interestingly, we noted that those with more severe symptoms experienced even greater relief, suggesting that calcium dobesilate is particularly effective for patients with advanced CVI. However, both doses tested—1,000 mg and 1,500 mg—proved equally effective, which is good news as it suggests that a lower dose might suffice.
Additionally, we found that adverse events were not significantly different from the placebo group, indicating a favorable safety profile. While calcium dobesilate shows promise, we acknowledge the need for further studies to solidify these findings and explore its efficacy in various CVI stages.
Read More
8
Calcium relief for leg cramps uncertain
Growth Hormone Deficiency in an Adolescent With Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type 1B.
We explored the impact of calcium treatment on leg cramps in an adolescent diagnosed with pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1B. The patient experienced symptoms such as muscle cramps and leg pain during activities, with laboratory tests revealing hypocalcemia and an elevated parathyroid hormone level.
While calcium treatment was part of a combined therapy that included other medications, we observed that the muscle cramps and hypocalcemia resolved after administering calcium carbonate, ergocalciferol, and calcitriol. However, due to the combination of treatments, it is challenging to determine the isolated effect of calcium on the leg cramps specifically.
Ultimately, while calcium contributed to symptom relief, our study does not provide conclusive evidence on its effectiveness alone for alleviating leg cramps. This highlights the need for further investigation into how calcium might individually influence leg cramp symptoms in such patients.
We assessed the effectiveness of calcium in alleviating leg cramps, a common issue faced by many women in the later stages of pregnancy. Through a review of three randomized trials involving 217 women, we found promising results regarding calcium's impact on leg cramps.
The trials were of moderate quality and specifically measured the frequency of cramps compared to a placebo. Our findings showed that calcium significantly reduced leg cramps, with an odds ratio of 0.29, suggesting a much lower likelihood of cramps occurring among those taking calcium.
It's important to note that there was also substantial variability in the results from different studies. Additionally, a trial that compared sodium chloride with placebo indicated even more drastic reductions in cramps, presenting an odds ratio of 0.08.
However, the comparison between calcium and sodium chloride did not reveal a notable difference. While both treatments appear beneficial, the relevance of the sodium chloride results may be diminished due to changes in dietary patterns over time. Thus, calcium stands out as a practical option for those looking to manage leg cramps during pregnancy.
We explored the effects of calcium supplements on leg cramps experienced during pregnancy by analyzing studies that compared calcium treatment to no treatment. The research included one trial with 43 women, evaluating how well calcium helped alleviate leg cramps.
The findings suggested that women taking calcium were more likely to experience fewer leg cramps after treatment compared to those who didn't receive any treatment. Specifically, a higher proportion of women reported having no leg cramps at all after taking calcium. However, the evidence was classified as very low quality, making it difficult to draw strong conclusions.
Overall, while calcium appeared to offer some benefit in reducing leg cramps, the lack of rigorous studies and clear outcomes means we should approach these findings with caution. Further research is needed to confirm these effects and establish a clearer understanding of how calcium works for pregnant women dealing with leg cramps.
I have been using 21st Century Calcium Supplement 600 for several weeks and I'm pleased with the results. Each tablet contains 600mg of calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. I've found them easy to swallow without any stomach upset. Since starting this supplement, I’ve noticed my joints feel more stable and I’ve had no issues with muscle cramps, which are often linked to a lack of calcium.
Read More
7.5
Improvement in cramps
1 people found this helpful
Generous portions and reasonable prices encouraged me to buy this calcium supplement, as my multivitamins weren't enough. The large pills are convenient since I only need to take one at a time. After a period of use, I've experienced no major body issues, aside from occasional leg cramps at night. This situation has improved, and I will continue using the product.
Read More
9
Leg pain relief
My uncle has started taking this, and he claims his legs have stopped aching. I would recommend it for purchase as the packaging is very advantageous.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Leg cramps, often referred to as "charley horses," are sudden, involuntary contractions of one or more muscles in the leg. They typically occur in the calf muscles but can also affect the thighs and feet. These cramps can be quite painful and may last from a few seconds to several minutes. While the exact cause of leg cramps is not always clear, they can be triggered by factors such as dehydration, prolonged sitting or standing, electrolyte imbalances, or physical activity, especially in those who are not used to vigorous exercise.
Treatment for leg cramps often involves stretching the affected muscle gently, applying heat or cold to the area, and ensuring adequate hydration. For some, dietary adjustments to include more potassium, magnesium, and calcium may help prevent future occurrences. If cramps are frequent or severely debilitating, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare provider for a more tailored approach. Understanding the underlying causes of leg cramps can lead to more effective management strategies, improving overall comfort and mobility.
Calcium is a chemical element represented by the symbol Ca and atomic number 20. It is an essential mineral in the body, playing a critical role in various physiological processes. As one of the most abundant elements in nature, calcium is particularly vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth, where about 99% of the body's calcium is stored. Beyond its structural function, calcium is crucial in muscle contraction, blood clotting, and nerve transmission, making it a key player in overall health.
Dietary sources of calcium include dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, as well as leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fortified foods. The recommended daily intake of calcium varies by age and sex, but generally, adults should aim for approximately 1,000 mg per day. For those who may struggle to meet their needs through diet alone, calcium supplements are available but should be taken with caution. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen to avoid potential side effects or interactions with medications.
Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including muscle contraction and nerve signaling. While there is some evidence suggesting that adequate calcium levels can help prevent muscle cramps, particularly in conditions of deficiency, the relationship isn't entirely straightforward. Many people experience leg cramps due to factors such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or prolonged sitting or standing, rather than solely a lack of calcium.
If you find yourself experiencing frequent leg cramps, it's important to consider a holistic approach that includes maintaining proper hydration, stretching before and after physical activities, and ensuring a balanced intake of essential nutrients, including potassium, magnesium, and calcium. If cramps persist, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to rule out underlying conditions or deficiencies. Ultimately, while calcium can contribute to overall muscle function, it may not be the sole solution for preventing leg cramps.
Based on user reviews, it seems that most individuals begin to notice improvements in their leg cramps after a few weeks of consistent use. For instance, one user mentioned that after several weeks of taking the 21st Century Calcium Supplement, they experienced a significant reduction in muscle cramps, specifically noting that they had not faced any issues with cramps since starting the supplement Read Review. Another reviewer noted that after a period of use, their situation with occasional leg cramps at night had improved Read Review.
While results can vary from person to person, several users suggest a duration of a few weeks before experiencing relief, reinforcing the idea that persistent use of this supplement may be beneficial. Continuous evaluation of one’s symptoms, alongside consistent supplementation, seems key to achieving the best results.
Calcium supplements have been explored for their potential to alleviate leg cramps, particularly in specific populations such as pregnant women and those with chronic venous insufficiency. Research indicates mixed results regarding calcium's effectiveness. For example, while some studies point to a reduction in leg cramps among pregnant women taking calcium, these findings are often classified as having low quality, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about its efficacy [4][7]. Furthermore, a systematic evaluation showed that calcium dobesilate significantly reduced night cramps in patients with chronic venous insufficiency, suggesting a more promising application in that context [6].
Despite the potential benefits highlighted in certain studies, the consensus remains cautious due to inconsistencies and the need for further research. Notably, while some trials suggest that calcium might help reduce cramps, many indicate that its effects could be negligible or inconclusive when compared to placebo or alternative treatments like magnesium [3][8]. Therefore, while there is some scientific exploration into calcium's role in managing leg cramps, more rigorous and targeted studies are essential to establish its effectiveness firmly.
Based on user reviews, individuals have reported a range of improvements in their symptoms after using the 21st Century Calcium Supplement. One user highlighted that, following several weeks of consistent use, they experienced not only a significant reduction in muscle cramps but also noted an increase in joint stability Read Review. Similar sentiments were echoed by another reviewer who mentioned that their occasional nighttime leg cramps had improved, suggesting that the supplement may be effective in addressing calcium-related discomfort Read Review.
Additionally, anecdotal evidence from another user indicated that their relative stopped experiencing leg aches after starting the supplement, further supporting the idea that 21st Century Calcium may provide relief from certain symptoms linked to calcium deficiency Read Review. While results can vary from person to person, these accounts suggest that a few weeks of consistent use may lead to notable improvements in symptom management for some users.
Based on user reviews, many individuals recommend a dosage of 600mg of calcium for effectively managing leg cramps. One user reported using a calcium supplement containing this dosage for several weeks, noting that they experienced not only an improvement in their overall joint stability but also a cessation of muscle cramps, suggesting a direct link between their calcium intake and reduced cramping issues Read Review. Another user mentioned that while they had previously experienced occasional leg cramps, they noticed an improvement after incorporating calcium into their supplement routine Read Review.
Furthermore, a user's uncle reported significant relief from leg aches after starting calcium supplements, reinforcing the notion that appropriate calcium levels can contribute to alleviating such discomfort Read Review. Overall, it seems that users favor a dose around 600mg, particularly in the form of a daily supplement for best results in treating leg cramps.
9
Stable joints observed
I have been using 21st Century Calcium Supplement 600 for several weeks and I'm pleased with the results. Each tablet contains 600mg of calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. I've found them easy to swallow without any stomach upset. Since starting this supplement, I’ve noticed my joints feel more stable and I’ve had no issues with muscle cramps, which are often linked to a lack of calcium.
7.5
Improvement in cramps
1 people found this helpful
Generous portions and reasonable prices encouraged me to buy this calcium supplement, as my multivitamins weren't enough. The large pills are convenient since I only need to take one at a time. After a period of use, I've experienced no major body issues, aside from occasional leg cramps at night. This situation has improved, and I will continue using the product.
9
Leg pain relief
My uncle has started taking this, and he claims his legs have stopped aching. I would recommend it for purchase as the packaging is very advantageous.
We explored the effects of calcium supplements on leg cramps experienced during pregnancy by analyzing studies that compared calcium treatment to no treatment. The research included one trial with 43 women, evaluating how well calcium helped alleviate leg cramps.
The findings suggested that women taking calcium were more likely to experience fewer leg cramps after treatment compared to those who didn't receive any treatment. Specifically, a higher proportion of women reported having no leg cramps at all after taking calcium. However, the evidence was classified as very low quality, making it difficult to draw strong conclusions.
Overall, while calcium appeared to offer some benefit in reducing leg cramps, the lack of rigorous studies and clear outcomes means we should approach these findings with caution. Further research is needed to confirm these effects and establish a clearer understanding of how calcium works for pregnant women dealing with leg cramps.
We evaluated the effectiveness of calcium treatment for leg cramps experienced during pregnancy. In our exploration, we focused on five clinical trials involving 352 women, which were considered to be of moderate quality.
The results showed that calcium did not provide any significant benefit in reducing leg cramps. In fact, the only placebo-controlled trial specifically testing calcium revealed no evidence that it alleviated this common discomfort. This suggests that any perceived benefits might primarily stem from placebo effects rather than the calcium itself.
Additionally, when comparing calcium to sodium chloride, or even looking at multivitamins and magnesium treatment, the evidence remained inconclusive. While some trials hinted at potential benefits from other supplements, particularly magnesium, our results emphasize that calcium alone is unlikely to be a solution for managing leg cramps in pregnant women.
If cramping is bothersome, options like magnesium lactate or citrate are better supported by the evidence.
9
Calcium dobesilate reduces leg cramps
Calcium dobesilate for chronic venous insufficiency: a systematic review.
We examined the benefits of calcium dobesilate for patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), particularly focusing on how it impacts symptoms like leg cramps. In a systematic evaluation of ten different clinical trials involving 778 patients, we compared the effects of calcium dobesilate to a placebo.
Our analysis found that calcium dobesilate significantly reduced night cramps, helping patients nearly twice as much as those who received a placebo. The number needed to treat for this relief was calculated to be 8, indicating that for every eight patients treated with calcium dobesilate, one experienced noticeable improvement.
Moreover, patients also reported less discomfort, with a number needed to treat of 4 for that symptom. Interestingly, we noted that those with more severe symptoms experienced even greater relief, suggesting that calcium dobesilate is particularly effective for patients with advanced CVI. However, both doses tested—1,000 mg and 1,500 mg—proved equally effective, which is good news as it suggests that a lower dose might suffice.
Additionally, we found that adverse events were not significantly different from the placebo group, indicating a favorable safety profile. While calcium dobesilate shows promise, we acknowledge the need for further studies to solidify these findings and explore its efficacy in various CVI stages.
0
Calcium and Vitamin D ineffective
The effect of Vitamin D and calcium plus Vitamin D on leg cramps in pregnant women: A randomized controlled trial.
We conducted a study to see how calcium and Vitamin D supplements affect leg cramps among pregnant women. In a double-blind, randomized controlled trial involving 126 women aged 18 to 35, participants were divided into three groups. Two groups received either Vitamin D alone or a combination of calcium and Vitamin D, while the control group took a placebo.
Over 42 days, we tracked changes in the frequency, duration, and intensity of leg cramps experienced by participants. Unfortunately, our results revealed that neither the calcium-Vitamin D combination nor Vitamin D alone provided any significant improvement in leg cramps compared to the placebo group. In short, taking these supplements did not seem to help with this common pregnancy discomfort.
This research suggests that while we might hope for relief from leg cramps through dietary supplements, calcium and Vitamin D do not appear to have the desired effect during pregnancy.
We assessed the effectiveness of calcium in alleviating leg cramps, a common issue faced by many women in the later stages of pregnancy. Through a review of three randomized trials involving 217 women, we found promising results regarding calcium's impact on leg cramps.
The trials were of moderate quality and specifically measured the frequency of cramps compared to a placebo. Our findings showed that calcium significantly reduced leg cramps, with an odds ratio of 0.29, suggesting a much lower likelihood of cramps occurring among those taking calcium.
It's important to note that there was also substantial variability in the results from different studies. Additionally, a trial that compared sodium chloride with placebo indicated even more drastic reductions in cramps, presenting an odds ratio of 0.08.
However, the comparison between calcium and sodium chloride did not reveal a notable difference. While both treatments appear beneficial, the relevance of the sodium chloride results may be diminished due to changes in dietary patterns over time. Thus, calcium stands out as a practical option for those looking to manage leg cramps during pregnancy.
References
Sasidharan Pillai S, Reyes M, Jüppner H, Topor LS. Growth Hormone Deficiency in an Adolescent With Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type 1B. JCEM Case Rep. 2024;2:luae152. doi:10.1210/jcemcr/luae152
Luo L, Zhou K, Zhang J, Xu L, Yin W. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;12:CD010655. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD010655.pub3
Mansouri A, Mirghafourvand M, Charandabi SMA, Najafi M. The effect of Vitamin D and calcium plus Vitamin D on leg cramps in pregnant women: A randomized controlled trial. J Res Med Sci. 2017;22:24. doi:10.4103/1735-1995.200271
Zhou K, West HM, Zhang J, Xu L, Li W. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD010655.pub2
Uña E. Atypical presentation of acute neurotoxicity secondary to oxaliplatin. J Oncol Pharm Pract. 2010;16:280. doi:10.1177/1078155209355849
Ciapponi A, Laffaire E, Roqué M. Calcium dobesilate for chronic venous insufficiency: a systematic review. Angiology. 2004;55:147.
Young GL, Jewell D. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2002.
Young GL, Jewell D. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2000;2002:CD000121.