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
7.5
Cramps reduced
9 people found this helpful
Initially, my legs had mild cramps at bedtime, which worsened and disrupted my sleep. I noted brittle nails and excessive hair loss, prompting me to analyse my calcium levels. Realising I needed calcium citrate for better absorption, I ordered this product and after half a month, noted a reduction in cramping, alongside stronger nails. Although the tablets are large, that isn’t an issue for me. I would recommend them and plan to order more.
Read More
9
Resolved night cramps
7 people found this helpful
An excellent product recommended by my doctor during pregnancy. I started taking it in the second trimester to help reduce leg cramps after long days. The capsules are notably large but SOLGAR is an excellent brand. For best absorption, I take Vitamin D in the evening with fat, ideally alongside K and omega-3s. I hope my experience helps others.
Read More
9
Better sleep achieved
2 people found this helpful
After a month on Solgar calcium, I can confidently say it’s effective. My calves hurt at night, but now thanks to this product, I sleep soundly. I wholeheartedly recommend it as the best calcium out there!
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.
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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.
Initially, my legs had mild cramps at bedtime, which worsened and disrupted my sleep. I noted brittle nails and excessive hair loss, prompting me to analyse my calcium levels. Realising I needed calcium citrate for better absorption, I ordered this product and after half a month, noted a reduction in cramping, alongside stronger nails. Although the tablets are large, that isn’t an issue for me. I would recommend them and plan to order more.
Read More
9
Resolved night cramps
7 people found this helpful
An excellent product recommended by my doctor during pregnancy. I started taking it in the second trimester to help reduce leg cramps after long days. The capsules are notably large but SOLGAR is an excellent brand. For best absorption, I take Vitamin D in the evening with fat, ideally alongside K and omega-3s. I hope my experience helps others.
Read More
9
Better sleep achieved
2 people found this helpful
After a month on Solgar calcium, I can confidently say it’s effective. My calves hurt at night, but now thanks to this product, I sleep soundly. I wholeheartedly recommend it as the best calcium out there!
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9
Pregnancy relief
1 people found this helpful
My wife was pregnant and experienced no cramps after taking this calcium citrate! The improvement was evident. Our doctor advised against seaweed calcium due to potential size issues for the baby’s head. This bottle of calcium + D3 is truly excellent.
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9
Effective relief noted
1 people found this helpful
Leg cramps be gone! This calcium dissolves quickly and appears to eliminate my leg cramps. I appreciate that, thank you, Solgar and iHerb – you make a fantastic team!
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 citrate is a calcium salt of citric acid, widely used as a dietary supplement to provide an additional source of calcium for individuals who may not get enough of this essential mineral from their diets. It is particularly popular for its enhanced bioavailability, which means that the body can absorb calcium from calcium citrate more effectively than from other forms of calcium, such as calcium carbonate. This supplement is especially beneficial for those with decreased stomach acid, such as older adults, as it does not require acid for absorption.
In addition to aiding in bone health, calcium plays a crucial role in muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. Typically, calcium citrate is available in tablet and powder forms, making it easy to incorporate into daily routines. It’s important to follow dosing recommendations and possibly consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen to ensure it meets individual dietary needs and health objectives.
Calcium citrate is often discussed in the context of muscle health and potential alleviation of leg cramps, particularly in individuals who may have a calcium deficiency. Calcium plays a crucial role in muscle contraction and relaxation, so ensuring that you have adequate levels of calcium in your body might help reduce the frequency and severity of cramps. While some people report a decrease in leg cramps after supplementing with calcium citrate, scientific evidence directly linking calcium citrate to the reduction of leg cramps remains limited and somewhat anecdotal.
If you're considering calcium citrate for leg cramps, it’s essential to assess your overall nutritional intake first. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help determine if a calcium deficiency is contributing to your cramps and whether supplementation is appropriate in your particular case. Additionally, other factors such as hydration, potassium levels, and overall diet should also be evaluated when addressing leg cramps, as they can significantly impact muscle function and cramping.
Based on user reviews, the time it takes to see results from taking this calcium supplement for leg cramps can vary. Many users report experiencing relief within a week of starting the supplement. For instance, one user noted that their parents saw noticeable improvement just a week after beginning to take the product, which led to fewer cramps and better sleep Read Review. Another user stated they felt no leg cramps during the night after the first day of use Read Review.
Others, however, noted that it took a bit longer for them to experience significant results. Some users reported seeing improvement after approximately a month of consistent use Read ReviewRead Review. Overall, while many users found quick relief, experiences can differ, and it seems that consistent use over a few weeks may lead to optimal results.
When it comes to the effectiveness of specific supplements for alleviating leg cramps, the evidence for Vitamin D and calcium specifically seems to be limited. In several studies involving pregnant women, neither Vitamin D alone nor calcium in combination with Vitamin D demonstrated significant improvements in the frequency or severity of leg cramps [2][1]. Most notably, a trial with 126 participants found that after 42 days of supplementation, there were no meaningful differences compared to the placebo group [2]. While some smaller studies suggested a potential benefit from calcium, the overall quality of evidence remains inconsistent and unclear [4].
On the other hand, calcium dobesilate, a different form of calcium used primarily for chronic venous insufficiency, has shown some promise in reducing night cramps effectively in larger trials [6]. However, general supplementation of calcium for leg cramps during pregnancy does not yield conclusive support based on existing research; a well-conducted review found calcium alone did not provide significant relief [7]. Therefore, while some forms of calcium may have potential, the current consensus suggests that widely used supplements like Vitamin D and standard calcium may not be the most effective choices for managing leg cramps.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in symptoms after incorporating this calcium supplement into their routines. A common theme is the near-instantaneous relief from leg cramps, with several users noting that they experienced no cramps during the night after just one day of use Read Review. Some users reported a complete cessation of cramps after a month of consistent use, attributing better sleep and overall comfort to this product Read Review. Furthermore, users have expressed additional benefits, such as stronger nails and reduced hair loss, which they attributed to improved calcium absorption Read Review.
Interestingly, one pregnant user noted a complete lack of leg cramps since starting the supplement, highlighting its effectiveness during this sensitive time Read Review. Similarly, users often mention the favorable absorption due to the added Vitamin D, which enhances calcium effectiveness Read Review. While individual results can vary significantly, these anecdotal experiences suggest that this calcium supplement presents a reliable option for those facing leg cramps and associated symptoms.
Users commonly report positive outcomes when combining this calcium supplement with other vitamins and supplements for managing leg cramps. For example, one user noted that taking Vitamin D, K, and omega-3s alongside the calcium significantly improved absorption and effectiveness in alleviating cramps during her pregnancy Read Review. Another user mentioned that their husband had better results when taking the calcium in conjunction with magnesium and other vitamins, leading to a noticeable improvement in cramps and muscle pain Read Review.
Additionally, the presence of Vitamin D in this supplement has been highlighted as beneficial for absorption, with users affirming that it helps improve the supplement's effectiveness Read Review. Many users believe that these combined approaches result in better overall management of leg cramps and related symptoms, contributing to a significant enhancement in their quality of sleep and daily comfort.
Users report varying experiences with dosing for Calcium Citrate in treating leg cramps, generally indicating that a consistent intake yields positive results. Many reviews highlight the effectiveness of the supplement in alleviating cramps after just a month of use. For instance, one user noted, “After a month on Solgar calcium, I can confidently say it’s effective” in reducing nocturnal leg pain Read Review. Another reviewer, who took the supplement during pregnancy, stated, "I’ve had no leg cramps," suggesting that proper dosing can lead to noticeable improvement Read Review.
In terms of specific recommendations, users mentioned taking Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D for enhanced absorption, as noted by one reviewer who emphasized the importance of pairing it with fat for optimal benefits Read Review. While the pills are described as large and challenging to swallow by some, the overall consensus is that consistent dosing over weeks leads to significant improvements in cramping and overall leg health Read Review. It is advisable to continue with the dosage as directed to see continuous benefits.
7.5
Noticeable improvement
1 people found this helpful
I ordered it for my parents, and they really liked it. The effect was immediately noticeable; literally a week after taking it, their leg joints started to trouble them less, particularly the cramping at night. Their sleep improved, and they have asked me to order more. Now, I take it for both them and myself.
7.5
Effective pain relief
4 people found this helpful
The fire!!! Good absorption and quick results! The only downside is that the tablets are large, making them difficult to swallow. After my first day, I noticed that I had no leg cramps during the night. Initially, I doubted the pills, but a week later, I became certain they were beneficial. Tooth sensitivity improved after a week, and I did not experience nausea. I do not believe a pregnant woman can get all necessary vitamins solely from food, so I recommend these.
9
Better sleep achieved
2 people found this helpful
After a month on Solgar calcium, I can confidently say it’s effective. My calves hurt at night, but now thanks to this product, I sleep soundly. I wholeheartedly recommend it as the best calcium out there!
10
Joint relief
Excellent! After a month of taking it, my leg joints stopped hurting, and the cramps disappeared as well. It has truly helped me.
7.5
Cramps reduced
9 people found this helpful
Initially, my legs had mild cramps at bedtime, which worsened and disrupted my sleep. I noted brittle nails and excessive hair loss, prompting me to analyse my calcium levels. Realising I needed calcium citrate for better absorption, I ordered this product and after half a month, noted a reduction in cramping, alongside stronger nails. Although the tablets are large, that isn’t an issue for me. I would recommend them and plan to order more.
9
Healthy pregnancy
I've taken this throughout my pregnancy as prescribed by my doctor, and I've had no leg cramps. My nails are strong, and my hair has thickened. It's well-absorbed without gastrointestinal irritation; though the price is high, it's worth it.
9
No more cramps
1 people found this helpful
A working formula! I occasionally buy this calcium. It absorbs better than others due to the added Vitamin D3. After using it, my legs stopped cramping at night, proving this formula’s effectiveness. I highly recommend it!
9
Resolved night cramps
7 people found this helpful
An excellent product recommended by my doctor during pregnancy. I started taking it in the second trimester to help reduce leg cramps after long days. The capsules are notably large but SOLGAR is an excellent brand. For best absorption, I take Vitamin D in the evening with fat, ideally alongside K and omega-3s. I hope my experience helps others.
7.5
Cramps alleviated
This is one of the best calcium supplements I ordered for my husband, who was suffering from cramps and muscle pain. He takes it together with calcium, magnesium, and vitamins and feels like he is getting better.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
References
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
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
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.