Chemistry

Calcium Glycerylphosphate

Calcium Glycerylphosphate

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