What is Chromium picolinate?
Chromium can be found in some foods. Humans rarely have a deficiency in chromium. The body only needs trace amounts. The pancreas produces insulin to help metabolise carbohydrates. Alternative medicine has used chromium picolinate to treat chromium deficiencies and control blood sugar levels in those with diabetes and prediabetes. It is also used to reduce cholesterol and aid in weight loss. You should not use chromium picolinate in place of the medication prescribed by your doctor. Chromium picolinate can be sold as an herbal supplement. Many herbal compounds do not meet industry regulatory standards for manufacturing. Unfortunately, supplements on the market may contain harmful drugs or metals which pose potential threats. To minimise the risk, herbal or health supplements must be purchased from a reputable source. This product guide does not list all possible uses for chromium picolinate.
Side effects of Chromium picolinate
If you experience symptoms indicative of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing and swelling of lips, face, tongue or throat; seek medical assistance immediately.
Chromium picolinate may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Thinking problems are a problem with concentration.
- Problems with coordination or balance;
- Liver problems: nausea; itching; fatigue; lack of appetite, dark urine production and clay-colored stool production, as well as jaundice.
Some of the common side effects associated with chromium picolinate include:
- Headache;
- Sleep problems (insomnia);
- Mood changes, feeling irritable.
There may be other side effects. Call your physician if experiencing side effects; otherwise contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report them.
Similar/related drugs
Ferrous sulphate, folic acid, ergocalciferol, thiamine, inc, and ferosul
Warnings
Please read all instructions included with your product carefully and thoroughly. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, your allergies, and the medicines you are using.
Before you take this drug
Speak to your doctor before using chromium picolinate. If you suffer from certain medical conditions, you may not be allowed to use chromium.
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes (especially if insulin is used);
- An allergic reaction to leather
- Mental illness;
- A thyroid disorder,
- If you are taking steroid medication (fluticasone, beclomethasone, prednisone, and others),
There is no way to know if chromium picolinate can harm an unborn child. If you are pregnant, do not use this product unless you have spoken to your doctor. Chromium picolinate can pass into breast milk and harm nursing babies. If you are breastfeeding a child, do not use this product unless a doctor has advised otherwise. Never give herbal or health supplements directly to children without first consulting with a healthcare provider.
How to take chromium picolinate?
Consult your doctor before using herbal supplements. Consult a health practitioner trained in herbal supplements. Use chromium picolinate only as directed on the label or by your doctor or pharmacist. Use only the recommended amount of this product. If you have diabetes, be sure to track and regulate your blood sugar levels regularly. As you age, the recommended daily intake of chromium increases. Please follow the instructions of your healthcare provider. For more information, you can consult the "Dietary Reference Intakes" of the National Academy of Sciences or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (formerly the "Recommended Daily Amounts" or RDA listings). Chromium picolinate is often part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes diet, exercise, and weight management. Be sure to follow your diet, medications, and exercise regimens. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
As soon as you recall, take the missed dose. If your next scheduled dosage is approaching, skip the missed dose. You should not take more medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention. Overdose symptoms include nausea, diarrhoea, and blood in the urine or stool.
What should be avoided?
Avoid eating a lot of sugar. This may reduce the effectiveness of chromium picolinate. Ask your doctor about antacids, and only use the ones that your doctor has prescribed. Some antiacids may make it more difficult for your body to absorb chromium.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies, may also interact with chromium picolinate. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines you are taking and those you plan to take.
