Chromium picolinate is one form of chromium, an essential trace element that is necessary for health, according to MedlinePlus. As a supplement, it is used for weight loss and conditioning and to help regulate blood sugar in those with diabetes, and to treat depression, high cholesterol and a number of other ailments. However, chromium picolinate is not a proven treatment, according to MedlinePlus. Consult your doctor before taking this supplement.
Side Effects
Chromium picolinate is probably safe when used for six months or less at the appropriate dose, according to MedlinePlus. Taking the supplement for a longer period or at high doses increases the risk of problems. Common side effects include skin irritation, headaches, lightheadedness, nausea, mood swings, difficulty thinking clearly and coordination problems. People who are allergic to chromate or leather may have an allergic reaction, which can cause redness, swelling and scaling of the skin.
Liver and Kidney Problems
At high doses, chromium picolinate has been linked to blood disorders, liver and kidney damage, according to MedlinePlus. Three patients have reported kidney damage and liver damage after taking chromium picolinate, according to Oregon State University's Linus Pauling Institute. A dose of 600 mcg of chromium picolinate per day was linked to a case of kidney failure. People with kidney or liver disease are advised not to take chromium picolinate.
Diabetes
Chromium picolinate is sometimes used to lower blood sugar levels in patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes or with prediabetes. But there is a risk that the supplement will lower blood sugar too much if it's taken with diabetes medications, particularly insulin, according to MedlinePlus. If you have diabetes, you should consult your doctor before taking chromium picolinate so that he can adjust your medication if necessary. You should also monitor your blood glucose levels closely while taking the supplement.
Other Risks
If you have a behavioral or psychiatric condition like depression, anxiety or schizophrenia, chromium picolinate may worsen the condition because it affects brain chemistry, according to MedlinePlus. Consult your doctor before taking the supplement and pay close attention to any changes in the way you feel. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should avoid chromium picolinate unless advised by a doctor to take it. Chromium picolinate may interact with a number of medications in ways that may increase or decrease the drug's effectiveness or lead to side effects. Consult a doctor or pharmacist before combining chromium with levothyroxine, over-the-counter painkillers, antacids, corticosteroids, H2 blockers, proton-pump inhibitors, beta-blockers and nicotinic acid.
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