NOW Calcium Citrate
Brand: NOW · Form: TABLET [E0155]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, but supplementation requires careful attention to dosage and timing. For NOW Calcium Citrate, our assessment is that it can be an effective way to meet your calcium needs, but you must be aware of the risks and interactions associated with high intakes [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as the structural building block for your bones and teeth. It supports bone density and mineral deposition through a process called bone mineralization. It also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for this product category. High levels of calcium in your blood and urine can cause serious side effects including 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 [FDA data] [NIH ODS]. Some research also suggests that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your total calcium intake from food and supplements. Do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level without medical supervision. Take calcium citrate with food for best absorption, and separate it from medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin by at least 2 hours, as calcium can reduce their absorption [NIH ODS]. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting supplementation.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 250.0 Tablet(s) |
| 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