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 foundational support for bone health. The data confirms that calcium is essential for bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. However, you need to be aware of the specific safety considerations and potential medication interactions before adding this to your routine.
How it works
Think of calcium as a key building block for your skeleton. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, which is critical for maintaining strong bones as you age [NIH ODS]. Additionally, calcium plays a direct role in neuromuscular relaxation, meaning it helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports for this product category [FDA data]. Some research suggests that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Very high levels of calcium 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data on specific side effects for the magnesium and vitamin D components is not available in the provided data.
Our recommendation
Start by checking if you actually need a calcium supplement. You can reduce medication interactions by taking calcium supplements at a different time of day than your other medications [NIH ODS]. Because high calcium intakes carry potential risks, it is best to consult your healthcare provider before starting this supplement to determine the appropriate dosage for your individual needs [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | The Vitamin Shoppe |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 600.0 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