Physician's Preference Calcium Citrate Caps
Brand: Physician's Preference · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is essential for bone health, but the data on calcium citrate specifically requires a careful look. For you, the key question is whether this form of calcium is right for your needs. The data confirms that calcium supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. However, the safety profile includes important risks you need to know about.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your bones and a signaling molecule for your nerves and muscles. It helps your body deposit minerals into bone tissue to maintain density, and it supports muscle relaxation and nerve signaling after contraction [NIH ODS]. This makes it critical for daily function, but balance is key.
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports for this product. The data shows that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. High levels of calcium in blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by checking your current calcium intake from food and supplements. If you take this product, take it separately from medications that interact, such as thyroid medication or antibiotics. Do not exceed the recommended dose on the label. If you have a history of kidney stones, heart disease, or prostate cancer, consult your doctor before use. Blood calcium levels should be monitored if you take high doses [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Physician's Preference |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 240.0 Vcap(s)(R) |
| Market Status | Off Market |
How to Read This Label
Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:
- Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
- Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
- % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
- Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
- Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.
Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide