Equate Calcium Citrate+D3
Brand: Equate · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that Equate Calcium Citrate+D3 can be a useful supplement for supporting bone health, but you need to be aware of important safety considerations. Calcium supports bone density and mineral deposition, as well as muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. However, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer, so you must be careful with your total daily intake from all sources [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a key structural component for your skeleton. It works through bone mineralization, helping your body deposit minerals to maintain strong, dense bones [NIH ODS]. It also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, which supports proper muscle function and nerve signaling throughout your body [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplement categories. For calcium specifically, high levels 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].
Our recommendation
Do not exceed the recommended dose on the label. Talk to your doctor before starting this supplement, especially if you take any medications for osteoporosis, thyroid conditions, or infections. Have your doctor check your total calcium intake from food and supplements to avoid excessive levels [NIH ODS]. If you experience nausea, constipation, or extreme tiredness, stop use and consult your healthcare provider.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Equate |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 120.0 Coated 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