In some patients, significant calcium deficiency leading to hypocalcemia can present with acute respiratory manifestations such as laryngospasm and bronchospasm, often in the context of generalized neuromuscular irritability and tetany. Case reports describe episodes of stridor, tightness in the chest, and even acute respiratory distress that improve as ionized calcium levels are corrected. The key clinical implication is that, when otherwise unexplained laryngospasm or bronchospasm occurs alongside perioral numbness, carpopedal spasm, or muscle cramps, prompt evaluation and correction of calcium deficiency can be lifesaving and help prevent recurrent respiratory compromise. This medication is commonly used for Hypertension.
Kennedy J, Pérusse L, Drapeau V, Tremblay A. Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Low Calcium Consumers: Potential Impact of Calcium Intake on Cardiorespiratory Fitness. Nutrients. 2025; 17(19):3138. Kumari A, Nangrani K, Dolkar T, Arora A, Schmidt M. Hypocalcemia Induced Bronchospasm. Cureus. 2022 Jun 26;14(6):e26339. Thongprayoon C, Cheungpasitporn W, Chewcharat A, et al. Serum ionised calcium and the risk of acute respiratory failure in hospitalised patients: a single-centre cohort study in the USA. BMJ Open 2020;10:e034325. Li X, Li Z, Ye J, Ye W. Association of dietary calcium intake with chronic bronchitis and emphysema. J Health Popul Nutr. 2025 Apr 2;44(1):102.
Some side effects may be linked to nutrient depletion caused by this medication.
Studies suggest that Felodipine, a type of calcium channel blocker (CCB), may increase the excretion of calcium in the urine. While the long-term effects on bone health are unclear, some healthcare professionals suggest calcium supplementation for patients taking felodipine, especially those at higher risk of osteoporosis.
Research suggests that Felodipine, a type of calcium channel blocker (CCB), may increase the excretion of magnesium in the urine. This can potentially lead to magnesium deficiency. Studies have shown an increase in fractional excretion of magnesium following felodipine treatment, and the drug may also alter how magnesium moves across red blood cell membranes. Therefore supplementation with magnesium should be considered when on this therapy.
An increased excretion of potassium can occur in people taking calcium channel blocker drugs like felodipine. Supplementation may need to be considered if blood levels of potassium are low.