NOW Probiotic-10 25 Billion
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that the primary active ingredient in NOW Probiotic-10 25 Billion, calcium, does not support probiotic function. Our assessment: This product is marketed as a probiotic, but the data provided only covers calcium, not any live bacterial strains. For general bone health, the data on calcium is clear, but for digestive or immune support, data is not available for this specific product.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your bones and a key player in nerve signaling. It supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation, which helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS]. However, this does not explain how the probiotic bacteria in this product would work in your gut — data on the specific strains is not available.
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, high intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High blood and urine 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] [FDA data]. Calcium can also reduce absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Data is not available for the probiotic strains in this product. For calcium needs, you should rely on dietary sources or a standalone calcium supplement. If you choose to take this product, be aware of calcium's drug interactions and potential side effects. Start with a low dose and consult your healthcare provider, especially if you take any medications [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 50.0 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