NOW Calcium Citrate Caps
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
Our assessment: Calcium is a foundational mineral for bone health, and this supplement provides a well-absorbed form. The evidence shows that adequate calcium intake supports bone density and helps prevent bone loss as you age [NIH ODS]. For most adults, the goal is to meet your daily requirement through diet and supplementation when needed.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your skeleton and a signal manager for your nerves and muscles. It supports bone mineralization, meaning it helps deposit minerals into your bone matrix to keep them strong [NIH ODS]. It also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax properly and your nerves send signals effectively [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Data not available for specific side effect counts from the FDA data provided for this ingredient alone. The total FDA adverse event reports for this product category is 592059 [FDA data]. Be aware that taking high amounts of calcium can lead to risks. Some research suggests that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. High levels of calcium in the 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].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Start by assessing your dietary calcium intake. The goal for most adults is 1,000 mg daily from food and supplements combined. Take this calcium citrate supplement with food for best absorption. Be aware of medication interactions — calcium can reduce absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Take these medications at least 2 hours apart from your calcium supplement. Do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level without guidance from your healthcare provider [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| 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