Calcium glycerylphosphate (or calcium glycerophosphate) is a mineral supplement. Formerly it was sold as a nerve tonic. It is a calcium salt of glycerophosphoric acid. It is used primarily as a nutritional supplement and remineralizing agent in dental care. It is added to some kinds of toothpaste.
Properties
- Chemical formula: C3H7CaO6P
- Molar mass: 210.135 g·mol−1
- Solubility in water: 54.3 g/L
- Appearance: White to off-white powder
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions; may degrade in high humidity or in the presence of strong acids or bases
- pH (solution): Slightly alkaline
Functional Properties
- Calcium Source: Acts as a dietary calcium supplement
- Buffering Agent: Can stabilize pH in formulations
- Remineralizing Agent: Helps restore minerals in tooth enamel
- Neuroprotective and Anti-inflammatory (potential): Some studies suggest it may have additional biochemical roles, though more research is needed
Occurrences and Uses
1. Nutritional Supplement
- Found in vitamin and mineral supplements to boost calcium intake
- Common in sports nutrition products, infant formulas, and dietary tablets
2. Dental Care
- Used in toothpastes and mouth rinses to:
- Promote enamel remineralization
- Reduce tooth sensitivity
- Decrease demineralization from acids
3. Pharmaceutical Applications
- Used in chewable tablets or powders for mild calcium supplementation
- Sometimes included in formulations for patients with digestive issues needing non-acidic calcium sources
4. Cosmetic Products
- Occasionally used as a skin conditioning agent due to its mineral content and pH stabilizing properties
Safety and Regulation
- Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used appropriately
- High doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort
- Should be used cautiously in patients with kidney issues or calcium metabolism disorders
