Chromium tablets or capsules

October 11, 2019

Chromium tablets or capsules

What is this medicine?

CHROMIUM (KROH mee um) is an essential nutrient. People need very small amounts of chromium in the diet. Very few people develop low levels of chromium. Most people get their needed amount by eating a balanced, healthy diet. Chromium may help regulate blood sugar. Chromium is also claimed to increase athletic performance in athletes and to decrease body fat in dieters. However, chromium supplements are not approved by the FDA for these uses.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the package or prescription label. For best results take with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • muscle cramps or pain

  • signs and symptoms of kidney injury like trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

  • signs and symptoms of low blood sugar such as feeling anxious; confusion; dizziness; increased hunger; unusually weak or tired; increased sweating; shakiness; cold, clammy skin; irritable; headache; blurred vision; fast heartbeat; loss of consciousness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • upset stomach

What may interact with this medicine?

  • levothyroxine and other thyroid hormones

  • medicines for diabetes

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • diabetes

  • kidney disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to chromium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Follow a good diet. Taking a supplement does not replace the need for a balanced diet. Some foods that have chromium naturally are whole grains, egg yolks, brewer's yeast, liver, meats, nuts, and potatoes with skin. Limit alcohol, smoking and stress.

This supplement may affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.

Too much of this supplement can be unsafe. Talk to your doctor or health care provider about how much is right for you.

Certain forms of chromium are not for human use. Do not take chromium products that are not labeled for use as dietary supplements or medicine.

Herbal or dietary supplements are not regulated like medicines. Rigid quality control standards are not required for dietary supplements. The purity and strength of these products can vary. The safety and efficacy of this dietary supplement for a certain disease or illness is not well known. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The Food and Drug Administration suggests the following to help consumers protect themselves:

  • Always read product labels and follow directions

  • Natural does not mean a product is safe for humans to take

  • Look for products that include USP after the ingredient name. This means that the manufacturer followed the standards of the US Pharmacopoeia

  • Supplements made or sold by a nationally known food or drug company are more likely to be made under tight controls. You can write to the company for more information about how the product was made

Updated:  

October 11, 2019