Solgar Vitamin B12 500 mcg
Brand: Solgar · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that the primary active ingredient in this product, calcium, plays a well-documented role in bone health. However, based on the data provided, this is a calcium supplement, not a Vitamin B12 product as the label suggests. Our assessment is that you should be aware of this discrepancy. For calcium specifically, the data supports its role in bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a master builder for your bones. It works by supporting bone density and mineral deposition, which is critical for maintaining a strong skeleton. Additionally, calcium supports muscle relaxation and nerve signaling, helping your body function smoothly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements, but specific report counts for calcium alone are not available. The data indicates that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels of calcium 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
We recommend you verify the product label carefully, as the data provided indicates the ingredient is calcium, not Vitamin B12. If you are seeking a calcium supplement, start by assessing your dietary intake. Be aware of the potential risks with very high intakes and the interactions with specific medications [NIH ODS]. For accurate product guidance, data on the specific brand and label is not available.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Solgar |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 Vegetable 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