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Chromium as adjunctive treatment for type 2 diabetes
Gina J Ryan1, Nancy S Wanko, Andrea R Redman
1Department of Clinical and Administrative Sciences, Southern School of Pharmacy, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA 30341-4155, USA. ryan_gj@mercer.edu
The Annals of Pharmacotherapy
|May 30, 2003
Summary
Trivalent chromium may help manage type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia by influencing glucose and lipid metabolism. While generally safe for short-term use, further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and optimal dosage.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry and Metabolism
- Endocrinology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Trivalent chromium is an essential trace mineral involved in glucose and lipid metabolism.
- Dysregulation of glucose and lipid metabolism is central to type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the chemistry, pharmacology, efficacy, and safety of trivalent chromium.
- To evaluate its potential role in managing type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia.
Main Methods:
- Extensive literature search of MEDLINE, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, and EMBASE (1966-May 2002).
- Inclusion of pertinent references from review articles and original studies.
- Keywords: chromium, glucose, lipids, diabetes.
Main Results:
- Trivalent chromium plays a key role in lipid and glucose metabolism.
- Chromium supplementation may reduce glucose levels in hyperglycemia but not in euglycemia.
- Effects on lipid levels are variable; generally safe at doses <1000 microg/d for short-term use.
- Monitoring of kidney function and dermatologic changes is recommended.
Conclusions:
- Trivalent chromium shows promise as a safe adjunctive therapy for type 2 diabetes.
- Further large-scale, long-term, randomized, double-blind studies are required.
- Investigating various doses and forms of chromium is essential for definitive conclusions.