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.
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Most Useful Reviews
9
Improved cramps
Good quality with high calcium content, suitable for all ages. It has helped significantly with leg cramps, contributing to bone development.
Read More
7.5
Reduced pain
Calcium Citrate has been quite beneficial for me. The quality and ingredients are good, and it's economical. My legs and feet are not as painful as they used to be.
Read More
7.5
Eased discomfort
After taking it for a week, I noticed my legs felt much more comfortable. It appears to be easily absorbed, which is great.
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.
Good quality with high calcium content, suitable for all ages. It has helped significantly with leg cramps, contributing to bone development.
Read More
7.5
Reduced pain
Calcium Citrate has been quite beneficial for me. The quality and ingredients are good, and it's economical. My legs and feet are not as painful as they used to be.
Read More
7.5
Eased discomfort
After taking it for a week, I noticed my legs felt much more comfortable. It appears to be easily absorbed, which is great.
Read More
7.5
Effective supplement
During menopause, I've experienced calcium loss and leg cramps at night. After two weeks of taking calcium supplements, I feel they are effective, and I hope for even better results.
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 Plus Vitamin D is a dietary supplement that combines calcium, an essential mineral vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth, with Vitamin D, a nutrient that enhances calcium absorption in the body. This combination is particularly beneficial for individuals looking to support their bone health, especially those at risk for osteoporosis or conditions that lead to decreased bone density. Calcium plays a key role in various bodily functions, including muscle contraction and nerve signaling, while Vitamin D aids in the regulation of calcium levels within the blood and helps promote overall immune function.
Many formulations of Calcium Plus Vitamin D are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and chewables, catering to different preferences and dietary needs. When considering adding a calcium and vitamin D supplement to your daily routine, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it's appropriate for your specific health requirements and to determine the right dosage. A balanced diet combined with regular sunlight exposure can also help maintain adequate calcium and vitamin D levels without the need for supplementation. However, for individuals who have limited sun exposure or have dietary restrictions, such supplements can provide a convenient and effective way to support bone health.
Calcium and vitamin D play important roles in maintaining bone health and muscle function, and their adequate levels are vital for overall wellness. While calcium helps in muscle contraction and relaxation, vitamin D improves calcium absorption and may support muscle strength. However, the relationship between calcium plus vitamin D supplementation and leg cramps is not definitively established. Some studies suggest that deficiencies in these nutrients may contribute to muscle cramps, particularly in individuals who have low levels of either calcium or vitamin D.
That said, if you are experiencing leg cramps, it's essential to consider other possible causes, such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or overuse of the muscles. In many cases, additional factors like poor circulation or underlying medical conditions might also be at play. Therefore, while calcium plus vitamin D could potentially be beneficial if you're deficient, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive assessment to determine the most effective approach for managing leg cramps.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported noticing improvements in leg cramps within a week to two weeks of starting their calcium supplement regimen. For instance, one user mentioned feeling much more comfortable in their legs after just a week of use, highlighting the supplement's absorption efficiency Read Review. Another reviewer, who faced leg cramps during menopause, noted that after two weeks of taking the supplements, they found the results to be effective Read Review.
Overall, while individual experiences may vary, a common theme across these reviews indicates that users can start to see substantial relief from leg cramps within this timeframe. It’s advisable to stay consistent with the supplement while monitoring any changes in symptoms, as improvements can continue to develop over time.
Scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of supplements for leg cramps, particularly during pregnancy, is mixed. A series of studies evaluating vitamin D's role revealed consistently disappointing results, with trials showing no meaningful reduction in the frequency of leg cramps among pregnant women taking vitamin D or calcium-vitamin D combinations compared to placebo groups [1][2]. The findings indicate that these supplements may not be a viable solution for managing this common pregnancy discomfort.
Calcium's effectiveness in alleviating leg cramps is somewhat ambiguous. While several studies indicate potential benefits, the quality of the evidence has been described as low to moderate [7][8]. In some instances, calcium supplements appeared to help reduce the frequency of cramps, but results varied significantly between studies and didn't uniformly provide significant relief [4]. This inconsistency suggests that while calcium may offer some benefits for leg cramps, more robust research is necessary to draw definitive conclusions. Thus, it's best for those suffering from recurrent leg cramps to consult healthcare professionals for personalized treatment options rather than relying solely on these supplements.
Users have reported various improvements in their symptoms after taking calcium supplements, particularly regarding leg cramps. Notably, one individual highlighted a significant decrease in leg cramps and an overall comfort in their legs after just one week of use, attributing the fast relief to the supplement's absorption qualities Read Review. Similarly, another reviewer mentioned a reduction in pain in their legs and feet, suggesting that the supplement not only alleviated discomfort but also contributed positively to their overall mobility Read Review.
Additionally, some users noted that the formula was beneficial during specific life stages, like menopause, where one reported feeling the effects of calcium supplements after two weeks, expressing a hopeful outlook for further improvement Read Review. Overall, while experiences vary from person to person, many users agree that consistent use of calcium supplements has led to noticeable relief from leg cramps and discomfort.
Users report varying experiences with the efficacy of Calcium Plus Vitamin D for treating leg cramps, often suggesting a noticeable improvement in comfort after consistent use. For instance, one reviewer noted that after a week of taking the supplement, their legs felt much more comfortable, highlighting ease of absorption as a positive attribute (Read Review). Another user, experiencing leg cramps during menopause, indicated an effective response after two weeks, expressing hope for even better results moving forward (Read Review).
The feedback indicates that consistent intake over a period of one to two weeks may lead to significant relief from leg cramps. Reviewers also reflect general satisfaction with the quality and composition of the product, with some appreciating its contribution to bone development beyond just alleviating cramps (Read Review). Additionally, the economical aspect of these supplements has been recognized, making them an appealing option for users seeking relief from chronic discomfort in their legs and feet (Read Review).
7.5
Eased discomfort
After taking it for a week, I noticed my legs felt much more comfortable. It appears to be easily absorbed, which is great.
7.5
Effective supplement
During menopause, I've experienced calcium loss and leg cramps at night. After two weeks of taking calcium supplements, I feel they are effective, and I hope for even better results.
7.5
Reduced pain
Calcium Citrate has been quite beneficial for me. The quality and ingredients are good, and it's economical. My legs and feet are not as painful as they used to be.
9
Improved cramps
Good quality with high calcium content, suitable for all ages. It has helped significantly with leg cramps, contributing to bone development.
We assessed the impact of vitamin D on leg cramps experienced during pregnancy, referring to data from various studies. One of the key findings was that vitamin D treatment showed little to no difference when it came to reducing the frequency of leg cramps.
In a trial involving 84 women, participants who received vitamin D did not see significant changes in the frequency of leg cramps after three weeks or six weeks post-treatment. This suggests that, while vitamin D is often discussed in the context of health benefits, its effectiveness for leg cramps specifically might be quite limited.
Overall, the evidence we reviewed highlights the need for caution. The findings suggest that vitamin D may not be a viable treatment option for managing leg cramps during pregnancy, indicating a need for more robust research in this area.
0
Vitamin D ineffective for cramps
The effect of Vitamin D and calcium plus Vitamin D on leg cramps in pregnant women: A randomized controlled trial.
We conducted a double-blind, randomized controlled trial to explore whether Vitamin D and calcium-Vitamin D supplements could help reduce leg cramps in pregnant women. Our study involved 126 participants aged 18 to 35, all experiencing a minimum of two leg cramps per week. Over the course of 42 days, participants took either a Vitamin D pill, calcium with Vitamin D, or a placebo.
We closely monitored the frequency, duration, and intensity of leg cramps before the intervention and during the third and sixth weeks of treatment. Despite our efforts and careful analysis, the results were clear: neither the Vitamin D nor the calcium-Vitamin D supplements made a meaningful difference in leg cramps.
This finding indicates that these popular supplements may not be effective for alleviating leg cramps during pregnancy, at least within the timeframe of our study. It's important for expecting mothers to consider this information when seeking relief from 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.
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.
References
Luo L, Zhou K, Zhang J, Xu L, Yin W. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;12:CD010655. 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. 10.4103/1735-1995.200271
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. 10.1210/jcemcr/luae152
Zhou K, West HM, Zhang J, Xu L, Li W. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015. 10.1002/14651858.CD010655.pub2
Uña E. Atypical presentation of acute neurotoxicity secondary to oxaliplatin. J Oncol Pharm Pract. 2010;16:280. 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.