Calcium supplements: When should they be taken?

In general, you can take calcium supplements at any time during the day. But there are several factors to consider that may affect the timing of taking calcium supplements, including how much you take, other medications you may take and the form of calcium supplement you take (check the product label).

• Dosage. Calcium is absorbed most efficiently when it's taken in amounts of 500 or 600 milligrams (mg) or less at one time. If you take 1,000 mg of calcium a day, split it into two or more doses over the course of the day.
• Medications. Calcium supplements can interact with many different prescription medications, including antibiotics, bisphosphonates and high blood pressure medications. You may need to take calcium supplements several hours before or after taking your medications. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about possible interactions between calcium supplements and medications you're taking to make sure you time the doses correctly.
• Calcium carbonate. If your calcium supplements contain calcium carbonate, take them with food. Stomach acid produced while eating helps the absorption of calcium carbonate.
• Calcium citrate. If your calcium supplements contain calcium citrate, you can take them with or without food.

If you still aren't sure about the best time to take calcium supplements, check with your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.