NOW Iron 18 mg
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
Our assessment: The evidence shows that calcium is essential for bone health, but this product contains iron, not calcium. Based on the data provided, we cannot make claims about the benefits of this specific NOW Iron 18 mg product for bone mineralization or neuromuscular function, as those mechanisms apply to calcium, not iron [NIH ODS]. You should not expect this supplement to support bone density or muscle relaxation.
How it works
Calcium, not iron, supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. For calcium specifically, think of it as a structural building block for your skeleton and a signaling agent for your nerves and muscles. However, these effects do not apply to the iron supplement you are asking about. Data on how iron works is not available in the provided information.
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements [FDA data]. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer, and can cause constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, and levothyroxine [NIH ODS]. Side effects specific to iron are not available in the provided data.
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Because the provided data is for calcium, not iron, we cannot make a confident recommendation for this NOW Iron 18 mg product based on the information given. If you are considering this supplement, consult your healthcare provider. Data on the appropriate dosage or form of iron is not available.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 120.0 Veg Capsule(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