AvKARE Prenatal Plus Vitamin and Mineral Tablet

Our assessment

Our assessment: AvKARE Prenatal Plus Vitamin and Mineral Tablet is a supplement designed to support nutritional needs during pregnancy and lactation, primarily through its calcium content. The evidence shows that calcium supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. However, you should be aware that safety data for this specific product is limited, and we rely on general information for its key ingredient.

How it works

Think of calcium as a foundational building block for your bones and a calming signal for your nerves. It works by supporting bone density and mineral deposition, and it helps your muscles relax and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS]. This is especially important during pregnancy when your body's demand for calcium increases to support fetal development.

Safety profile

Data not available for this specific product's adverse events. For calcium supplements broadly, some research suggests that high 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]. The FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement products, but a breakdown for AvKARE Prenatal Plus is not provided [FDA data].

Our recommendation

Our recommendation: If you are taking this product, take it exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. Be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. You should take this supplement at least two hours apart from these medications. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before combining this supplement with any prescription drugs. The data provided does not specify a recommended dose for this product.

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