Swanson Ultra Albion Complexed Selenium 200 mcg
Brand: Swanson Ultra · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a crucial mineral for bone health and nerve function, but it requires careful management. While this product is labeled as selenium, the data provided only covers calcium, so our analysis will focus on that ingredient. The data indicates that calcium supports bone density and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. However, you should be aware of significant safety concerns and potential interactions before considering supplementation.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder and a cellular messenger. It works by supporting bone mineralization, which is the process of depositing minerals into your skeleton to maintain bone density and strength. Additionally, calcium supports neuromuscular relaxation, meaning it helps your muscles relax after contracting and aids in proper nerve signal transmission [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements, but specific report counts for calcium are not available [FDA data]. The data warns that high calcium 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Specific side effect report counts for this product are not available.
Our recommendation
Data not available for a specific dosage recommendation for this product. Because calcium has known risks and interactions with common medications, you should not take this supplement without first consulting your healthcare provider. If you are on any prescription medications, especially antibiotics or thyroid medication, discuss the timing and necessity of calcium supplementation. Your doctor can help you assess whether you need additional calcium and can monitor your blood levels to avoid toxicity [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Swanson Ultra |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 Capsule(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