NOW Iron Complex
Brand: NOW · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, but supplementing with it requires careful consideration. Our assessment is that while calcium supports bone density and neuromuscular function, high intakes may carry risks that you should understand before starting a supplement [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your bones and a signaling messenger for your nerves and muscles. It supports bone mineralization and mineral deposition, and it helps your muscles relax and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Data not available for NOW Iron Complex specifically. However, for calcium in general, some research suggests that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. 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]. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories [FDA data]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
We recommend you get your calcium primarily from food sources and only supplement if your healthcare provider confirms a deficiency or inadequate intake. Be aware that calcium can interfere with other medications you may be taking, so timing doses apart from those drugs is essential [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 250.0 Tablet(s) |
| Market Status | On 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