NOW Clinical Probiotic Immune
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that the key ingredient in NOW Clinical Probiotic Immune is calcium, which is a mineral critical for bone health and nerve function [NIH ODS]. However, the product is marketed as a probiotic for immune support, and the data provided does not include any specific probiotic strains or their effects. Our assessment is that this product’s primary documented benefit comes from its calcium content, not from immune support as implied by the name. You should understand that the immune claims are not backed by the data available here.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural and signaling mineral. It supports bone mineralization, helping to build and maintain strong bones, and it aids in neuromuscular relaxation, which is essential for proper muscle and nerve function [NIH ODS]. The data does not describe any mechanism for how this product supports the immune system, so you should not expect any specific immune benefits from the calcium alone.
Safety profile
The FDA has received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements, but data on reports specifically for this product is not available. For calcium, high intakes can increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Very high blood calcium levels can cause 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]. You should also know that calcium can reduce the absorption of certain medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation is to avoid this product if you are seeking immune support, as the data does not support that claim. If you are taking it for calcium, be aware of the potential side effects and drug interactions. You should get your calcium intake from food sources or a standard calcium supplement, and consult your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you take any of the medications listed above [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Veg Capsule(s) |
| Market Status | Off 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