Bioavailability study of calcium sandoz-250 by atomic absorption spectroscopy in albino rats

BACKGROUND: Calcium sandoz-250 is an Ayurvedic calcium supplement, containing Khatika Churna. Bioavailability study of the formulation is essential for estimation of peak plasma concentration (C(max)), time to C(max) and rate of absorption. AIM: To evaluate the absorption parameters of calcium sandoz-250 in albino rats by atomic absorption spectroscopic (AAS) method. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Study was carried out as a single dose, open-label, randomized study. Estimation of calcium was carried out by AAS, after validating the method for a few parameters for the estimation. Pharmacokinetic parameters such as C(max), time to peak concentration (T(max)), area under the plasma concentration - time curve were calculated for calcium on administration of calcium sandoz-250. RESULTS: Linearity curve was plotted for 0.5-2.5 ppm, given R(2) value 0.9975. The C(max), i.e. C(max) after administration of calcium sandoz-250 was 0.793 mg/ml at 90 min (T(max)). Measurable calcium-blood levels were noticed in all subjects up to 3.0 h after administration of calcium sandoz-250. CONCLUSION: Calcium sandoz-250, consisting of Khatika Churna, increases the blood calcium level in albino rats.