Chromium Picolinate

What is chromium picolinate?

Chromium picolinate is a dietary supplement used to support the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats in cats, horses, and pigs. Chromium picolinate may increase insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism and can be used as an adjunctive (supportive) therapy for diabetes and obesity in cats and horses that suffer from metabolic syndrome. In pigs, it may improve growth performance, carcass quality, and litter size.

There are no veterinary brands of chromium picolinate, so human over-the-counter supplements are used off label in pets.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health supplements (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health supplements must ensure their supplements are safe and labeled accurately. The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This supplement is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health supplements” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These supplements are not tested by Health Canada.

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health supplements in pets. Just because a supplement is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it may also be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.

How is chromium picolinate given?

• Chromium picolinate is given orally (by mouth) and comes in the form of a tablet or capsule.
• Tablets and capsules may be given with or without food.
• If vomiting occurs when given on an empty stomach, give future doses with a small meal or treat.
• Follow your veterinarian’s directions and use supplements according to their label.
• Ideally, give this supplement at the same time daily.
• Ensure access to fresh, clean drinking water.
• If you have difficulty getting your animal to take the supplement, ask your veterinarian or pharmacist for tips to reduce the stress of medication time for both you and your animal.
• Wash your hands after handling.
• Do not handle if you have a known sensitivity to this supplement.

Chromium picolinate may take several days to take effect, and improvement in clinical signs are not always be outwardly noticeable.

What if I miss giving my pet the supplement?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from chromium picolinate?

There are no documented side effects from chromium picolinate; however, studies are limited, so information about side effects is also limited.

• In humans, serious side effects may include increased drinking, increased urination, decreased appetite, vomiting, and neurological effects (e.g., incoordination).
• Sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This moderate-acting supplement should stop working within several days to one week, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this drug/supplement?

DO NOT USE chromium picolinate in:

• Pets that are allergic to it or to any of the ingredients in the supplement

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Pets with kidney disease
• Pets that are pregnant or nursing
• Pets receiving behavioral medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Contact your veterinarian if your animal’s condition does not improve within 60 days or worsens despite this treatment.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Certain medications should be used WITH CAUTION when given with chromium picolinate, including:

• Corticosteroids
• H2-blockers
• Levothyroxine
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Proton pump inhibitors
• Zinc

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?

• At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If any occur, discontinue the supplement and contact your veterinarian.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the supplement is working and not causing side effects.

How do I store chromium picolinate?

• Ensure oral supplements are stored in a cool, dry area in tightly sealed containers to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the supplement, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms. Report any adverse effects to the FDA or Health Canada.