Equate Calcium Citrate+D3
Brand: Equate · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
Our assessment: Calcium is an essential mineral for bone health, but the data shows you must be careful with dosing. The evidence shows that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. For most adults, getting calcium from food is preferred, but a supplement like Equate Calcium Citrate+D3 can help fill a gap if your diet is low [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a key building block for your skeleton. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, which keeps your bones strong. It also helps your muscles relax and supports proper nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. The "D3" in this product helps your body absorb the calcium more effectively [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Safety profile: There were 592,059 total adverse event reports for products in this category [FDA data]. Specific risks include constipation, nausea, and weight loss. Very high levels of calcium in your blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, 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
Our recommendation: Start with a low dose and take it with food to improve absorption. Be aware of your total calcium intake from all sources, including food and other supplements, to avoid exceeding safe levels. If you take any of the medications listed above, separate them from this supplement by at least 2 hours [NIH ODS]. Data not available on the specific amount of calcium or vitamin D in this product.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Equate |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 180.0 Coated Tablet(s) |
| Market Status | On 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