21st Century Calcium 1200 mg
Brand: 21st Century · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, but the data on this specific product is limited. We can confirm that calcium supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular function [NIH ODS]. However, we do not have sufficient data to evaluate the specific formulation of the 21st Century Calcium 1200 mg product beyond its ingredient.
How it works
Think of calcium as the building block for your skeleton. It works through bone mineralization to support bone density and mineral deposition, and it also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. This means it helps your muscles relax properly and your nerves communicate effectively.
Safety profile
FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all products, but specific report counts for this exact product are not available. High calcium intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. 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
You should only take this supplement if you have a confirmed need for extra calcium, such as a diagnosed deficiency or a healthcare provider's recommendation. Be aware of the potential interactions with your medications. Start with the lowest effective dose and monitor for side effects. Data not available on the exact formulation or bioavailability of this specific brand, so you may want to discuss with your doctor whether a different source of calcium is better for you [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | 21st Century |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 Rapid Release Softgel(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