Swanson Calcium Citrate & Vitamin D
Brand: Swanson · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that Swanson Calcium Citrate & Vitamin D provides calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. However, the data raises important safety considerations you should be aware of before starting this supplement. Our assessment is that while calcium is critical for bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS], the potential risks associated with high intakes require careful attention to dosing [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your skeleton. It supports bone density and mineral deposition through a process called bone mineralization [NIH ODS]. Additionally, calcium plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 adverse event reports for calcium-containing products [FDA data]. The data indicates that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. 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]. You should also know that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Data not available on the specific dose of calcium or vitamin D in this product, so we cannot provide a precise daily recommendation. Because of the potential for serious side effects and drug interactions, we recommend you speak with your healthcare provider before taking this supplement to determine the appropriate dose for your individual needs and to review any medications you are taking [NIH ODS] [FDA data].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Swanson |
|---|---|
| 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