About chromium picolinate
Mineral supplement
Used for
- Provides chromium, an essential trace mineral.
- May support normal blood sugar metabolism; benefits for diabetes or weight loss are not established.
Usual adult dose
Common supplement doses are 200–1,000 micrograms once daily; needs vary by product and purpose.
Common side effects
- Stomach upset
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Rash
Important warnings
- Use caution with diabetes medicines; chromium may affect blood sugar.
- Kidney or liver disease may increase risk; safety data are limited.
- High supplemental intake has rarely been linked to kidney or liver problems.
Pregnancy
Chromium is needed in small amounts, but supplemental doses above dietary needs have limited safety evidence; consult a clinician.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts occur naturally in breast milk; safety of high-dose supplements is unclear.
Interactions
- Insulin and diabetes medicines: may increase low blood sugar risk.
- Levothyroxine: chromium may reduce absorption; separate doses by several hours.
- Antacids or calcium, iron, and zinc supplements may affect chromium absorption.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.