NOW Magnesium & Calcium
Brand: NOW · Form: TABLET [E0155]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this supplement combines two essential minerals, but you need to be careful with your total daily intake. Calcium is critical for bone health, but the data warns that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. You should only use this product if you cannot meet your needs through food alone.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your skeleton. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, and it also helps your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports for products in this category. High calcium levels 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 [FDA data] [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by tracking how much calcium you get from food. Do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level unless directed by your doctor. Take this supplement with food and separate it from any medications by at least two hours [NIH ODS]. If you have a history of kidney stones or heart disease, consult your physician before use.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 250.0 Tablet(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