Chromium Picolinate Problems

Chromium picolinate is a mineral and only trace amounts are needed by the body. This mineral works with insulin in the metabolism of carbohydrates. It is often used in alternative medicine to help control blood-sugar levels, to lower cholesterol and to help people lose weight.

Contraindications

• Patients with certain medical conditions should consult their physician before taking chromium picoliante. This mineral may adversely affect certain medical conditions. According to Drugs.com, these include liver disease, cancer, diabetes and a weak immune system. Women who are breastfeeding or pregnant should not use chromium picolinate.

Administration

• Patients wishing to take this mineral should consult their physician first to avoid chromium picolinate problems. A doctor will be able to advise a patient on how much they should take and how often they should take it. They can also educate patients on which medications and medical conditions chromium picolinate may interact with. Chromium picolinate should be taken orally with a full glass of water.

Food Interactions

• Certain foods may interact with chromium. Patients should avoid foods high in sugar, as sugar may decrease the effectiveness of chromium picolinate.

Side Effects

• According to Drugs.com, most patients experience no side effects with chromium picolinate. However, some patients will experience nausea. There is also the risk that a patient will experience an allergic reaction including trouble breathing, hives and swelling. Swelling most often affects the lips, throat, face and tongue; however, any part of the body can become swollen.

Drug Interactions

• Certain drugs may interact with chromium picolinate and cause problems. Certain antacids may make it more difficult for the body to absorb this mineral, so the patient should consult their doctor about which antacids they can safely use when taking chromium picolinate. According to Drugs.com, other drugs that may interact include oral diabetes medications and oral insulin, medications that reduce stomach acid, beta-blockers, steroid medications, proton-pump inhibitors, nicotinic acid, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and aspirin. Other herbal supplements, nutritional supplements and non-prescription medications may also lead to chromium picolinate problems. All patients taking this mineral should tell their doctor about all over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, herbs and nutritional supplements they are taking prior to taking chromium picolinate