Calcium is an essential mineral that supports strong bones, muscle function, and nerve health. For many older adults, calcium supplements are recommended to help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis-related fractures.
However, new research suggests that patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) should use caution before starting calcium supplements, particularly when calcium is taken without vitamin D. A large population-based study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association examined more than 35,000 adults with a previous history of cardiovascular disease and found that calcium supplementation alone was associated with a higher risk of recurrent cardiovascular events.
What Did the Study Find?
Researchers in Hong Kong analyzed health records from adults aged 40 and older who already had cardiovascular disease. The study compared 17,720 patients who received calcium supplements with 17,720 patients who did not, following them to assess whether calcium supplementation was associated with future cardiovascular problems.
The findings showed that calcium supplementation was linked with a 10% higher risk of recurrent cardiovascular events and a 16% higher risk of hospitalization or emergency department visits related to cardiovascular disease.
The researchers suggested that increased circulating calcium levels may contribute to processes involved in blood vessel calcification, including coronary artery calcification and aortic calcification. Both conditions are associated with worsening cardiovascular disease.
Calcium Alone vs Calcium With Vitamin D
One of the most important findings was the difference between calcium supplements taken alone and calcium combined with vitamin D.
Patients taking calcium supplements without vitamin D had a higher risk of recurrent cardiovascular events. Patients taking calcium combined with vitamin D did not show the same increased cardiovascular risk. Researchers suggested that vitamin D may help regulate calcium metabolism and potentially reduce some of the effects of excess calcium circulating in the bloodstream.
Does This Mean Patients Should Stop Calcium Supplements?
No. Calcium remains important for many patients, especially those at risk of osteoporosis or fractures. The study does not prove that calcium supplements directly cause heart disease — it was an observational study, meaning researchers identified an association rather than a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
Patients who may still benefit from calcium supplementation include those with osteoporosis, low dietary calcium intake, increased fracture risk, vitamin D deficiency, or limited sun exposure. The key message is that calcium supplementation should be individualized.
The Centrum Pharmacy Recommendation: Review Your Supplements With Your Pharmacist
Many patients take calcium supplements without realizing they may be taking more calcium than needed, calcium without vitamin D, multiple products containing calcium, or supplements that may interact with medications.
At Centrum Pharmacy, our pharmacists can help review your complete medication and supplement profile through a MedsCheck medication review. During a MedsCheck, we can discuss why you are taking calcium, your cardiovascular history, your osteoporosis risk, your vitamin D intake, possible interactions with your prescription medications — including other cardiovascular medications like cholesterol-lowering drugs — and whether supplementation is still appropriate.
Protect Your Heart and Your Bones
Bone health and heart health are both important, but the right balance matters. If you have a previous heart attack, coronary artery disease, stroke history, high cardiovascular risk, or osteoporosis or fracture concerns, speak with your pharmacist before starting or changing calcium supplements.
At Centrum Pharmacy, we believe in Complete, Comprehensive, Caring, and Connected Care — helping you make informed decisions about every medication, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Talk to your Centrum pharmacist today about whether your calcium supplement is right for you.
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Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
