FAQ – Calcium Gluconate Gel

What is Calcium Gluconate Gel?

Calcium gluconate gel is a medication used to treat skin and mucous membrane burns caused by exposure to hydrofluoric acid. Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is a strong, corrosive acid that can cause severe burns to the skin and other tissues. Calcium gluconate gel is applied topically to the affected area to neutralize the acid and provide calcium ions to the affected area, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation.

What is the Gel made of?

The gel is composed of Calcium Gluconate, a salt of calcium and gluconic acid, which provides calcium ions that can neutralize the acid and minimize the damage. It is available as a water-based gel.

Who should stock Calcium Gluconate Gel?

It is recommended that workplaces and organizations that use or handle hydrofluoric acid, such as laboratories, factories, and chemical plants, should stock calcium gluconate gel as a first aid measure. It is also recommended that emergency responders, such as paramedics and firefighters, should also stock calcium gluconate gel in their vehicles and equipment for use in case of emergencies. Every person that is likely to come in contact with Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) should have their own supply of Calcium Gluconate Gel available at all times.

Can Calcium Gluconate Gel be used for other types of burns?

It is important to note that Calcium Gluconate gel should only be used for burns caused by Hydrofluoric acid and should not be used for other types of burns. If you are unsure about the suitability of Calcium Gluconate gel for your workplace or organization, you should consult a healthcare professional or a chemical safety expert.

How does Calcium Gluconate Gel work?

Calcium gluconate gel works by neutralizing hydrofluoric acid (HF) and providing calcium ions to the affected area. Hydrofluoric acid is a strong, corrosive acid that can cause severe burns to the skin and other tissues. When the acid comes into contact with the skin, it can penetrate the skin and cause damage to the underlying tissues.

When applied topically to the affected area, the calcium ions in the gel react with the hydrofluoric acid to form calcium fluoride, a less corrosive compound. This neutralization of the acid helps to reduce the severity of the burn and minimize the damage to the skin and underlying tissues.

Does Calcium Gluconate Gel help relieve pain?

Yes, the calcium ions in the gel can help to reduce pain and inflammation by binding to the nerve receptors in the affected area. This can help to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with the burn.

Should I seek medical attention if I am exposed to HF?

Yes it is very important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

How do I store Calcium Gluconate Gel?

It is important to properly store the gel, keeping it away from heat and direct light, and to discard it if it has expired or if the container is damaged.

Is Calcium Gluconate Gel FDA approved?

Calcium gluconate gel is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a drug, but it is considered to be a “generally recognized as safe and effective” (GRASE) product. This means that the FDA has determined that the benefits of calcium gluconate gel outweigh the risks when used as directed, and that the product is safe and effective for its intended use.

Is a prescription required to purchase Calcium Gluconate Gel?

No, a prescription is not required to purchase calcium gluconate gel. It is classified as an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, meaning that it can be purchased without a prescription from a pharmacist or other healthcare professional. However, it is important to note that it is a medication intended for external use only and it should only be used for burns caused by Hydrofluoric acid and not for other types of burns.