NOW Magnesium Citrate 200 mg
Brand: NOW · Form: TABLET [E0155]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for your health, but it requires careful management. While it supports strong bones and proper nerve function, the data reveals important safety considerations you need to know before starting a supplement [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a building block and a messenger. It supports bone mineralization, helping deposit minerals into your skeleton for density and strength. It also promotes neuromuscular relaxation, aiding in muscle relaxation and nerve signaling throughout your body [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports for this product category. The data warns that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Very high levels in your 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 [FDA data] [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your dietary calcium intake before supplementing. Note that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin. Take calcium supplements at least two hours apart from these medications. Data not available for specific dosing recommendations for this product's 200 mg form [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 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