CVS Pharmacy Calcium Ultra
Brand: CVS Pharmacy · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a foundational mineral for bone health, but supplementation requires careful consideration. Many people get sufficient calcium from their diet, so adding a supplement like this one may not be necessary for everyone. The data indicates that calcium supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. For most adults, the goal is to meet, not exceed, the recommended daily intake through a combination of food and, if needed, supplements.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder and a cellular messenger. It is a primary component of your bones and teeth, providing density and strength through a process called bone mineralization. Additionally, calcium plays a critical role in muscle relaxation and nerve signaling, helping your muscles contract and your nerves send messages throughout your body [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for this product category. While calcium is essential, high intakes carry risks. The data shows that high calcium levels in the blood and urine can lead to 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. Some research also suggests that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. You should also be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Data not available to provide a specific dosage recommendation for this product. Before starting any calcium supplement, assess your dietary intake from dairy, leafy greens, and fortified foods. If you decide to supplement, take it with food to improve absorption and be mindful of total daily intake from all sources. Crucially, if you take any of the listed medications, separate your calcium dose by at least two hours to avoid absorption issues [NIH ODS]. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if this supplement is right for you, especially if you have a history of kidney stones, heart disease, or prostate cancer.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | CVS Pharmacy |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 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