NOW High Potency Melatonin 5 mg
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, but supplementation requires careful consideration of dosage and timing. For most adults, the goal should be to meet calcium needs through diet first, as high-dose supplements carry notable risks [NIH ODS].
How it works
Calcium acts as a structural building block for your bones and teeth, supporting bone mineralization and density. It also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly after contraction [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories. For calcium specifically, high intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Elevated blood and urine calcium levels can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [FDA data] [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your dietary calcium intake from dairy, leafy greens, and fortified foods. If you need a supplement, choose a dose that brings your total intake to the recommended dietary allowance without exceeding it. Take calcium separately from medications like thyroid hormone or antibiotics by at least two hours [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 180.0 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