ask your pharmacist

What are the side effects of chromium picolinate?

Using chromium supplements over a short period of time is not usually linked to side effects. But studies have noted occasional reports of irregular heartbeats with its use.

Infrequently, chromium has been reported to cause changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia and increased dream activity. Irritability is another reported side effect of chromium therapy.

Some concerns have been raised about exposure to certain forms of chromium in the workplace. These forms—chromium oxide and chromium fluoride—have been linked to increased risk for cancer, kidney damage, ulcers, hepatitis, and skin rashes. But they are not the types of chromium used in chromium supplements. Chromium supplements and chromium from food haven’t been shown to cause such health problems in people.

Since chromium supplements may change the way your body handles sugar, talk to a doctor before using them if you have diabetes or use insulin.

Sources:
Peirce, A. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines. William Morrow & Co., 1999.
The Review of Natural Products. Facts & Comparisons, 2007.
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2007.

This answer prepared 4/13/2001.
This information updated 1/18/2007.