NOW Elderberry & Zinc
Brand: NOW · Form: LOZENGE [E0174] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that NOW Elderberry & Zinc is a dietary supplement combining two ingredients with distinct roles. Our assessment is based strictly on the data provided for the ingredient calcium, which is listed on the label. For elderberry and zinc specifically, detailed data is not available in the provided information. We must be transparent: we can only evaluate the calcium component as described in the data.
How it works
Based on the data, the calcium in this product supports two key functions in your body. First, it acts as a structural component for bone mineralization, helping to build and maintain bone density. Second, it plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, meaning it helps your muscles relax and supports proper nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. For the specific mechanisms of elderberry and zinc, data is not available.
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements, but specific report counts for this product are not available. For calcium, the data warns that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Additionally, very high blood levels of calcium 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. For side effects specifically from elderberry or zinc, data is not available.
Our recommendation
Our recommendation is to use this supplement with caution due to the limited data. If you take any medications, particularly antibiotics, thyroid medication, or bone-strengthening drugs, check with your doctor before using this product because of the calcium interaction risk [NIH ODS]. Do not exceed the serving size on the label, as high calcium intake carries significant health risks. For a complete evaluation of the elderberry and zinc ingredients, we cannot make a recommendation because the necessary data is not available.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 30.0 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