NOW Magnesium Citrate
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, but it is not a supplement to take casually. Our assessment: based on the data, you should be very deliberate about your calcium intake, as both deficiency and excess carry significant risks. The data does not provide specific dosing recommendations for this product, so you should consult a healthcare provider to determine if calcium supplementation is appropriate for you [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as the structural scaffolding for your bones and a calming signal for your nerves and muscles. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, and it is essential for neuromuscular relaxation and proper nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. Without enough calcium, your body will leach it from your bones to support these critical functions.
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories, though data specific to calcium is not provided. The data warns that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Very high levels 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]. You should also be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation is to get your calcium primarily from food sources unless a blood test and your doctor confirm you need a supplement. If you take this product, take it with food and separate it from any medications listed above by at least two hours. Data not available on the specific dose or form of calcium in this product, so follow the label directions and do not exceed the RDA without medical supervision [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 120.0 Veg 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