Side-Effects of Chromium

1. Toxic reactions have been associated with chromium picolinate at significantly higher doses:

a. Renal failure

b. Interstitial nephritis

c. Liver and kidney damage

d. Thrombocytopenia

e. Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis

f. Rhabdomyolysis

g. Clatogenic/mutagenic reactions

2. Chronic exposure to airborne or waterborne hexavalent chromium (chromium dust is metal-working, printing, textile, etc) is associated with dermatitis and increased risk for lung cancer.

3. Toxicity is greater in those with pre-existing liver or kidney disease.

4. Tedious monitoring of patients taking chromium together with other anti-diabetic drugs is required.