The Vitamin Shoppe Calcium Citrate Plus Magnesium & Vitamin D
Brand: The Vitamin Shoppe · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this combination supplement provides a foundational mineral for bone health, but you need to be aware of important safety limits and medication interactions. Our assessment: Calcium is essential, but more is not always better, and you should only take it if you know your dietary intake is low [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a building block and a signaler. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it also helps your muscles relax and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS]. The addition of magnesium and vitamin D in this product is designed to help your body use the calcium more effectively.
Safety profile
Based on FDA data, there have been 592,059 total adverse event reports for this product category. Specific risks from high calcium intake include constipation, nausea, and a high risk of death from heart disease. High levels in your blood can also cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, abnormal heart rhythms, and extreme tiredness [FDA data] [NIH ODS]. Data on side effects specific to the magnesium and vitamin D components in this exact product is not available.
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your daily calcium intake from food. Do not take this supplement if you are already consuming high-calcium foods or taking other calcium-containing products. Be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, and levothyroxine [NIH ODS]. Because of the potential for serious side effects, we recommend discussing this supplement with your doctor before starting it [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | The Vitamin Shoppe |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 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