Life Extension B12 500 mcg
Brand: Life Extension · Form: LOZENGE [E0174] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that Life Extension B12 500 mcg contains a single ingredient: calcium. Our assessment is that this product is not what its name suggests. The label indicates it is a B12 supplement, but the data provided identifies calcium as the sole ingredient. This is a critical discrepancy. We cannot recommend this product for B12 supplementation based on the available data. Data not available for B12 content or effects.
How it works
Calcium supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. Think of it as a key structural component for your skeleton and a regulator for muscle and nerve signaling. However, because the product is labeled as B12 but contains calcium, you should not rely on it for vitamin B12 support.
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 adverse event reports for all supplements in this category [FDA data]. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Side effects from high calcium levels include constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, and levothyroxine [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
We recommend you do not use this product for B12 supplementation. The ingredient list does not match the product name. If you need vitamin B12, choose a supplement explicitly labeled as cyanocobalamin or methylcobalamin. For calcium needs, consider dietary sources first. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 Vegetarian Lozenge(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