Calcium Orotate, with the CAS number 22454-86-0, is an organic calcium salt formed by the combination of calcium ions and orotic acid, also known as Calcium 1,2,3,6-tetrahydro-2,6-dioxopyrimidine-4-carboxylate. Its molecular formula is C₁₀H₈CaN₄O₈, and its molecular weight is 360.29 g/mol. It integrates the physiological functions of calcium and orotic acid, featuring high bioavailability, good biocompatibility, and stable chemical properties, making it widely applied in pharmaceuticals, nutritional supplements, and health care fields.
Physically, Calcium Orotate appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder or fine granular solid. It has a melting point of approximately 290-295℃ (decomposition) and is slightly soluble in cold water, more soluble in hot water, while slightly soluble in ethanol and insoluble in non-polar solvents. It is odorless and tasteless, with low hygroscopicity and good stability under normal temperature and pressure when stored properly, facilitating easy handling, storage, and formulation into various dosage forms such as tablets, capsules, and oral suspensions.
Chemically, it is a stable organic calcium complex, where orotic acid acts as a chelating agent to bind calcium ions, significantly improving the solubility and bioavailability of calcium compared to inorganic calcium salts (e.g., calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate). It retains the core functional groups of orotic acid (pyrimidine ring, carboxyl group) and calcium ions, enabling it to participate in various physiological processes in the body, including bone formation, nerve conduction, and muscle contraction.
Its core applications focus on pharmaceuticals and nutritional supplements. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used as a raw material for preparing drugs to supplement calcium deficiency, support bone health, and prevent osteoporosis. Calcium is essential for maintaining bone density and strength, while orotic acid promotes nucleic acid synthesis and cell repair, enhancing the absorption of calcium and reducing potential gastrointestinal irritation.
In nutritional supplements, it is widely used in health products to provide targeted calcium supplementation, suitable for populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, adolescents, and those with calcium deficiency. It also supports dental health, nerve function, and metabolic balance. Safety-wise, it is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) under normal dosage, with low toxicity and no obvious irritation. It should be stored in a sealed, cool, dry, and dark environment, away from oxidants, moisture, and high temperatures to prevent decomposition. With its high bioavailability and dual physiological benefits, it is a valuable raw material in the health care and pharmaceutical industries.