NOW Calcium Hydroxyapatite Caps
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium from NOW Calcium Hydroxyapatite Caps supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. For most adults, calcium is a foundational mineral, but you must be careful about total intake from all sources—supplements and diet combined.
How it works
Think of calcium as a building block for your skeleton. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, and it also helps your muscles relax and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS]. This supplement provides calcium in a hydroxyapatite form, which is a natural component of bone.
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for calcium products. Side effects reported include constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [FDA data]. High calcium intakes might also increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by evaluating your total daily calcium intake from food and any other supplements. Do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level without medical supervision. Take this supplement with food and separate it from medications like thyroid hormone or antibiotics by at least 2 hours [NIH ODS]. Data not available on the exact dosage per capsule—check the label carefully.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 120.0 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