Has anyone been on AlgaeCal supplement?

Posted by klansford123 @klansford123, Sep 7, 2025

Hi, my Dr. recommended Algaecal supplement for my osteoarthritis because I don't want to go back on Fosamax. side effects include sarcoma of the jaw. Has anyone been on this supplement? results? It's pretty costly and my insurance won't cover it.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Osteoporosis & Bone Health Support Group.

Profile picture for nycmusic @nycmusic

Yes, I tried it… but it had too much magnesium for me , as evidenced in loose stools…i now take NewChapter (tiny tabs for dosage control)…less magnesium better for me now…detailed info/ comparisons about supplements can be found at ConsumerLab.com…today’s bulletin focuses on this …i like to know that there is 3rd party testing…. It takes time to research, worth the time.

Jump to this post

@nycmusic Thanks for mentioning NewChapter, as I've never heard of it. I just checked out their website and will definitely be looking into their products more closely this weekend. I had been considering AlgaeCal and just haven't had the time to pursue other plant-based alternatives to support my bone health. I agree about the 3rd party testing -- to be 100% sure what we're putting into our bodies is safe. I was diagnosed with osteoporisis at age 65, in spring of 2025 - surprise, surprise! I'm grateful to find others on here, like you, who can lend advice, support and their personal stories. It can be a lonely road, otherwise . . .

REPLY

I am currently taking AlgaeCal. Have not had bone density scan since I started the AlgaeCal but am hopeful. Oncologist prescribed Fosamax & I prefer less intense medications since I am on breast cancer treatment currently. Chemo & radiation are done but immunotherapy is current as is Anastrozole.

REPLY

I've read good things about New Chapter. It appears that they have a good reputation. However, at one point in time I believe I checked into AlgaeCal and decided against it due to possible mercury contamination. I could be wrong. It's been some time. However, that may be something you would want to check into. Look for testing. Lots of luck to you.

REPLY

Good to know you have a doctor who appreciates the science of OTC supplements.

REPLY
Profile picture for nannygoat5 @nannygoat5

@inquiring

I take it- it’s pretty pricey. I just had a repeat DEXA and I’ve improved 5%! That said, I also started taking fosamax 3.5 months ago so that may factor in.

Jump to this post

@nannygoat5 If you smoke, talk to your doctor about fosamax as smoking while taking fosamax is related to a condition called dead jaw - osteonecrosis of the jaw.

REPLY
Profile picture for ripley25 @ripley25

@nannygoat5 If you smoke, talk to your doctor about fosamax as smoking while taking fosamax is related to a condition called dead jaw - osteonecrosis of the jaw.

Jump to this post

@ripley25 I never smoked

REPLY
Profile picture for nannygoat5 @nannygoat5

@nannygoat5ps both my Endo DIL and my own Endo and my internal medicine haven’t see any issues

REPLY

I took Algaecal for almost a year and it didn't work for me. My numbers got worse. I started Forteo 14 months ago and will be getting another scan next month. Some people have good luck with Algaecal though.

REPLY
Profile picture for smodesitt @smodesitt

I took Algaecal for almost a year and it didn't work for me. My numbers got worse. I started Forteo 14 months ago and will be getting another scan next month. Some people have good luck with Algaecal though.

Jump to this post

@smodesitt
However, I do take their collagen powder and have noticed my skin looks better. I'm pretty skeptical otherwise I wouldn't post. I'm 63 and my skin is smoother, still wrinkled, but just looks all around better.

REPLY
Profile picture for jeepgrl @jeepgrl

I've read good things about New Chapter. It appears that they have a good reputation. However, at one point in time I believe I checked into AlgaeCal and decided against it due to possible mercury contamination. I could be wrong. It's been some time. However, that may be something you would want to check into. Look for testing. Lots of luck to you.

Jump to this post

@jeepgrl I am doing algaecal plus....Doing a REMS scan in August and then another Dexa with TBS in December will report back Had 2 compresure fractures last November and diagnosed with osteoporosis. I do osteoporosis exercises 2x a week and eat a whole food plant based diet. Trying EVERYTHING not to take meds

REPLY
Please sign in or register to post a reply.