Life Extension Folic Acid & Vitamin B12 Caps
Brand: Life Extension · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this combination supplement provides two essential nutrients, but you should be aware of important limitations. Data for folic acid and vitamin B12 specifically is not available in the provided dataset, so we must focus on the calcium content included in the data. Our assessment: for general bone health support, calcium plays a key role, but you need to weigh the benefits against potential risks [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a building block for your skeleton. It supports bone mineralization and density, and also helps with nerve signaling and muscle relaxation [NIH ODS]. The product label lists folic acid and vitamin B12, but specific mechanisms for these ingredients are not available in the provided data. For calcium, the mechanism is well-documented: it deposits into bone tissue and helps regulate neuromuscular function [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories, but specific report counts for this product are not available [FDA data]. 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]. Calcium can also reduce absorption of medications including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Data is not available on specific dosing for folic acid and vitamin B12 from this product. For calcium, you should not exceed the tolerable upper intake level without medical supervision. If you take any prescription medications, particularly antibiotics or thyroid medication, take this supplement at least two hours apart to avoid absorption interference [NIH ODS]. We recommend discussing this supplement with your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you have a history of kidney stones, heart disease, or prostate cancer [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 200.0 Vegetarian 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