NOW Iron Complex
Brand: NOW · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a well-established mineral for bone health, but it is important to use it carefully. For the NOW Iron Complex product, the key active ingredient with available data is calcium. Our assessment is that while calcium supports bone density and nerve function, you need to be aware of the risks and interactions associated with supplementation [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a building block for your skeleton. It works through bone mineralization, helping to deposit minerals and maintain bone density. It also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, supporting proper muscle and nerve signaling [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Safety data is available for calcium. High intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. 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]. The total number of adverse event reports across all supplements in the FDA database is 592,059, but specific report counts for calcium alone are not provided [FDA data].
Our recommendation
We recommend you get your calcium needs assessed by a healthcare provider. Be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data not available on the specific dosage of calcium in this product, so check the label carefully. Start with a balanced diet and only supplement if advised by your doctor.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 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