Gastroprotective and toxicological evaluation of the Lithothamnion calcareum algae

► Gastroprotective and pre-clinical toxicity of the Lithothamnion calcareum red alga. ► L. calcareum did not protect the gastric mucosa. ► L. calcareum did not cause any increase in gastric irritation. ► No effect was observed in the acute toxicity test. ► In the subchronic toxicity test there were alterations, suggesting hypercalcemia.