Ionized calcium is calcium that is freely flowing in your blood and not attached to proteins. It is also called free calcium.
All cells need calcium in order to work. Calcium helps build strong bones and teeth. It is important for heart function, and helps with muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and blood clotting.
This article discusses the test used to measure the amount of ionized calcium in blood.
Your health care provider will take blood sample from you. See: Venipuncture
A machine spins the blood to separate the cells from the liquid part of the blood (the serum). The amount of ionized calcium found in the serum is measured.
How to prepare for the test:
You should not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before the test. Your doctor may tell you to temporarily stop taking any drugs that can affect the test results. Calcium salts, hydralazine, lithium, thiazide diuretics, and thyroxine can increase your level of ionized calcium.
Never stop taking any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
Review Date: 4/26/2007
Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, MD, Professor of Endocrinology, Department of Biology, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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