NOW Magnesium Citrate 200 mg
Brand: NOW · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
Our assessment: The evidence shows that this product is a calcium supplement, not magnesium citrate. The label states "NOW Magnesium Citrate 200 mg," but the ingredient data provided is for calcium, not magnesium. This is a critical mismatch. For calcium specifically, it supports bone density and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. However, you should verify the actual product label before use, as the ingredient information here is inconsistent with the product name.
How it works
Calcium acts as a master regulator for your body. It supports bone mineralization, helping deposit minerals into your skeleton for strength, and it promotes neuromuscular relaxation by aiding muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. Think of it as a key player in keeping your bones dense and your nerves communicating effectively.
Safety profile
The FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports for supplements in this category [FDA data]. For calcium specifically, high intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Excess calcium in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Data not available for side effects specific to this product alone.
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Do not take this product based on the data provided. The label says magnesium citrate, but the ingredient data is for calcium. This discrepancy makes it impossible to give a safe recommendation. If you need a calcium supplement, be aware it can reduce absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Always consult your pharmacist or doctor before starting any new supplement.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 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