Chromium seems to be well-tolerated. Studies have generally not found side effects in those taking chromium compared to placebo, but thorough safety analyses have also not been done. Currently, the Institute of Medicine has no safe upper limit for chromium due to a lack of evidence.[1] There have been isolated case reports of anemia (low red blood cells), thrombocytopenia (low platelets), liver and kidney dysfunction, dermatitis, low blood sugar, and rhabdomyolysis (a severe type of muscle injury).[2][3][4][5][6] Some of these cases involved chromium doses exceeding 1,000 µg daily, but others were taking doses of 200–600 µg daily, which are considered to be within normal range. However, none of these side effects have been observed in clinical trials to date.
What are chromium’s main drawbacks?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Chromium is generally well tolerated, and few side effects have been reported compared to placebo, but thorough safety analyses are lacking. Isolated case reports have noted issues such as anemia and liver dysfunction, sometimes at daily doses exceeding 1,000 µg, though these side effects have not been observed in clinical trials.