Chromium

Trace mineral
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Chromium is a trace mineral found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Cobadex CZS. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: chromium picolinate

What it is used for

Included in some supplements for blood sugar control.

How it works

A trace mineral claimed to help blood sugar control; evidence is weak.

How to take it

Usually 200 to 1,000 mcg a day.

Common side effects

  • Headache
  • Stomach upset

Get medical help straight away if

Dark urine or tiredness (rare kidney or liver effects)

Be careful

Not a replacement for diabetes medicines.

Other medicines and interactions

May add to the effect of diabetes medicines; check sugars.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your doctor before taking supplements in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Combination medicines that contain Chromium (1)

Cobadex CZS

Common questions

What is Chromium used for?

Included in some supplements for blood sugar control.

How does Chromium work?

A trace mineral claimed to help blood sugar control; evidence is weak.

How should I take Chromium?

Usually 200 to 1,000 mcg a day.

What are the side effects of Chromium?

Common: Headache, stomach upset. Get help straight away for: Dark urine or tiredness (rare kidney or liver effects).

Does Chromium interact with other medicines?

May add to the effect of diabetes medicines; check sugars.

Is Chromium safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask your doctor before taking supplements in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Does Chromium need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Chromium?

Cobadex CZS.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.