International Vitamin Corporation Protegra
Brand: International Vitamin Corporation · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that International Vitamin Corporation Protegra contains calcium as its primary ingredient. For general bone health, calcium is a well-supported mineral, but you must be careful with dosing and timing. The data shows that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer, so this is not a supplement to take casually [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder and a signal messenger. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, and it helps your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS]. If you are not getting enough calcium from food, this supplement can help fill the gap, but it is important to know your baseline intake first.
Safety profile
FDA received 592059 total adverse event reports for this product category. Specific risks from high calcium levels include: 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] [FDA data]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. You should separate calcium intake from these medications by at least 2 hours.
Our recommendation
Start by reviewing your daily calcium intake from food. Do not exceed 2,500 mg total per day from food and supplements combined. Take this supplement with food for better absorption. If you take any of the listed medications, consult your doctor before starting. Data on the exact dose per serving for this specific product is not available [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | International Vitamin Corporation |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Easy-to-Swallow Softgel(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