chromium

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

chromium is an essential mineral that is required in small amounts for several physiological processes in the body. It plays a crucial role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. chromium is known to enhance the action of insulin. As a result, chromium is often used as a dietary supplement to help manage blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. 

chromium is also believed to play a role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and supporting weight loss. However, the evidence supporting these claims is limited and further research is needed to confirm these effects. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Rare 

• Hepatic/renal impairment  

Common 

• Weight gain 
• Cognitive dysfunction, insomnia, mood changes, perceptual dysfunction, headache, irritability, motor dysfunction, sleep disturbances 
• Anemia, thrombocytopenia, hemolysis

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

There are no black box warnings for chromium

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

chromium supplementation is contraindicated in people with hypersensitivity to chromium or other components of the supplement. Additionally, it is contraindicated in people with chromate or leather contact dermatitis, as they may be more likely to develop an allergic reaction to chromium supplements. chromium supplementation should also be avoided in people with chromosomal abnormalities and renal dysfunction. 

Caution: 

• Diabetes: chromium can lower blood sugar levels; people with diabetes should be monitored their blood sugar levels closely and adjust their diabetes medication as necessary. 
• Liver disease: People with liver disease should use chromium supplements with caution, as they may be more susceptible to liver damage. 
• Kidney disease: People with kidney disease should use chromium supplements with caution, as they may be more susceptible to kidney damage. 
• Mental health disorders: There is some concern that chromium supplementation may worsen symptoms of depression or bipolar disorder. 
• Allergies: People with known allergies to chromium or other metals should avoid chromium supplements. 
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: The safety of chromium supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established, so caution is advised. 

Comorbidities: 

chromium is an essential trace element required for normal carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism. However, some individuals with certain medical conditions may have an increased risk of adverse effects from chromium supplementation. For example, patients with kidney or liver disease may not be able to properly metabolize and excrete chromium, leading to toxicity. People with diabetes, thyroid problems, or other endocrine disorders should use caution when supplementing with chromium, as it may affect blood sugar levels and hormone production. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also use caution with chromium supplements, as there is not enough evidence to determine if they are safe in these populations. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:

pregnancy category C 

Lactation:

It is not known whether chromium is excreted in human milk 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: Satisfactory and well-controlled studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: There is no evidence of risk to the fetus found in animal reproduction studies and there are not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: Adverse effects on the fetus found with evidence in animal reproduction studies and no adequate evidence for an effect in humans, care must be taken for potential risks in pregnant women. 
• Category D: There is adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite potential risks may be used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh risks over benefits These category drugs should be prohibited for pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

chromium is an essential trace element that plays a key role in glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and insulin signaling. The pharmacology of chromium is related to its ability to enhance insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake by cells. 

chromium is found in foods, including meats, whole-grain products, fruits, and vegetables. In the body, chromium is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, transported to the liver, and then transported to various tissues via transferrin. chromium is primarily excreted via the kidneys. 

chromium is involved in the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. It enhances the action of insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels by promoting the uptake of glucose by cells. chromium helps in the binding of insulin to its receptor, which triggers a signaling pathway that promotes glucose uptake and metabolism.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

chromium is an essential mineral that is required for normal glucose metabolism. It plays a key role in insulin signaling and enhances the effects of insulin, promoting glucose uptake and storage in cells. chromium also plays a role in protein synthesis and fat metabolism. 

chromium supplementation has been shown to improve glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes. It may also help to reduce insulin resistance, lower blood glucose levels, and improve lipid profiles. However, the exact mechanisms by which chromium exerts its effects are not fully understood, and further research is needed to fully elucidate its pharmacodynamics. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

chromium is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with an estimated absorption rate of less than 2%. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, chromium is transported in the blood bound to transferrin, a protein that transports iron and other metals in the blood. 

Metabolism 

chromium is excreted primarily in the urine, with a small amount excreted in the feces. 

Elimination and excretion 

The elimination half-life of chromium in the blood is about 24 hours. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

chromium supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquids. The recommended dosage and administration of chromium supplements can vary based on the specific product and the individual’s needs. 

In general, chromium supplements are usually taken orally, either with or without food. The supplements may be taken as a single dose or divided into multiple doses throughout the day. Some chromium supplements are designed to be taken on an empty stomach, while others are recommended to be taken with food to aid in absorption. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: chromium 

Pronounced: (KROME-ee-um) 

Why do we use chromium? 

chromium is used as a dietary supplement to support weight loss, improve glucose control in diabetes, and enhance athletic performance. chromium supplements are also sometimes used for the treatment of depression, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and high cholesterol levels. However, the effectiveness of chromium supplementation for these conditions remains uncertain, and further research is needed to establish its clinical benefits. chromium is also used in some industrial applications, such as the production of stainless steel and other alloys.