NOW Molecularly Distilled Super Omega EPA
Brand: NOW · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that while the product label lists Super Omega EPA, our available data only covers one of its potential ingredients: Calcium. For this ingredient, the data is mixed. Calcium is essential for bone health, but the risks associated with high intakes are significant and cannot be ignored. You should be very cautious about supplementing with calcium unless you have a confirmed deficiency or a specific medical need.
How it works
Calcium acts as a master regulator for your body's structure and function. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it is critical for neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. Think of it as the raw material your body uses to keep your skeleton strong and your muscles functioning properly.
Safety profile
Data not available for this specific product's side effects. However, for the ingredient Calcium, the FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all products [FDA data]. High calcium intakes are linked to serious risks, including an increased risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Symptoms of excessively high calcium levels in the blood and urine include 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].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Do not take this supplement for calcium unless advised by your doctor. The risks of high calcium intake are serious. Furthermore, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. If you are concerned about your calcium intake, focus on dietary sources and discuss any supplementation with your healthcare provider to ensure it is safe for you.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 240.0 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