Equate Calcium Citrate+D
Brand: Equate · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is essential for bone health, but supplementation requires careful consideration. For Equate Calcium Citrate+D, the key ingredient is calcium, which supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. However, you should be aware that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your bones. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, and it also helps your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS]. The "D" in the product name refers to vitamin D, which is crucial for calcium absorption, though specific data on the vitamin D content in this product is not available in the provided data.
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all products. For calcium specifically, high levels 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]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. You should separate calcium supplements from these medications by at least two hours.
Our recommendation
Our assessment is that you should not exceed the RDA without medical supervision. Start with a low dose and monitor for side effects like constipation or nausea [NIH ODS]. Because calcium interacts with many medications, consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting this supplement, especially if you take thyroid medication or antibiotics [NIH ODS]. Data on the specific dose and form of calcium citrate in this product is not available, so check the label carefully.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Equate |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 200.0 Tablet(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