Therefore, these two should be avoided. As for the other types of calcium supplements, they all may contain trace levels of lead, but none contain invariably more or less lead than the others. Only take as much calcium in pill form as is needed to reach the recommended level of calcium. Absorption is most efficient with doses of 500 mg or less at a time. If you need more than 500 mg per day, then divide the total daily dose into 2 or more doses per day.
Optimal absorption occurs when pills are taken with meals or soon after meals.
Allow at least 1 to 2 hours between taking the drug and supplement. Ask your doctor about other medications and their potential for interaction with calcium. Calcium absorption can be hindered by corticosteroids. Long-term use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of osteoporosis and the doctor should be consulted in this situation about protective actions. Phytates found in wheat bran, soybeans, and legumes, can interfere with calcium absorption from supplements.