Question
I had parathyroid surgery last year. I am still on calcium and Vitamin D supplements but wondering if I can stop. My calcium has been normal. When can I stop the calcium?
Answer
Answer authored by
Deva Boone
Deva Boone, MD is the founder of the Southwest Parathyroid Center. As one of the most experienced parathyroid surgeons in the U.S., she has treated thousands of patients with parathyroid conditions.
I usually determine when calcium can be stopped based on two things: 1. Your serum calcium level. If it is low (under 9.3 mg/dl), then I usually recommend continuing to take calcium. If it is truly in the normal range, then it may be possible to stop. 2. Your bone health. If you have osteopenia or osteoporosis, I usually recommend staying on calcium and Vitamin D for the sake of your bones. (I also recommend magnesium.)
If your calcium is normal and your bones are normal, then stopping the calcium is possible. I usually recommend continuing the Vitamin D for a few years after parathyroid surgery. Vitamin D helps you absorb the calcium in your diet.
