Life Extension Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D
Brand: Life Extension · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this supplement provides a well-studied form of calcium paired with vitamin D to support bone health. Calcium is essential for bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. You should be aware of the specific safety considerations and potential medication interactions before adding this to your routine.
How it works
Think of calcium as a building block for your skeleton and a signal messenger for your nerves and muscles. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, and it is critical for muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. The vitamin D in the formula helps your body absorb this calcium more effectively.
Safety profile
FDA has received 592,059 total adverse event reports for this product category. Specific risks include 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] [FDA data]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by discussing this supplement with your healthcare provider, especially if you take any of the listed medications. For most adults, the goal is to meet your daily calcium needs from food first, using supplements to fill any gaps. Data not available on the exact dosage per serving in this specific product, so follow the label instructions and do not exceed the recommended intake [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 200.0 Vegetarian Capsule(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