Cr-GTF Uses, Side Effects & Warnings - Drugs.com

Skip to main content
Print
Save

# Cr-GTF

Generic name: chromium picolinate [ KROME-ee-um-pi-KOE-li-nate ]
Brand names: Cr-GTF, CRM
Drug class: Minerals and electrolytes

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on May 2, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

## What is Cr-GTF?

Chromium is a mineral found in certain foods. The body needs only trace amounts of chromium, and deficiency of this mineral in humans is rare.

Cr-GTF works together with insulin produced by the pancreas to metabolize carbohydrates.

Cr-GTF has been used in alternative medicine to treat chromium deficiency, as an aid to controlling blood sugar in people with diabetes or prediabetes, to lower cholesterol, and as a weight-loss supplement.

Not all uses for Cr-GTF have been approved by the FDA. This medicine should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Cr-GTF is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Cr-GTF may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

## Warnings

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

## Before taking this medicine

Before using Cr-GTF, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use this medicine if you have certain medical conditions.

- liver disease;

- kidney disease;

- diabetes (especially if you use insulin);

- an allergy to leather products;

- mental illness;

- a thyroid disorder; or

- if you use steroid medicine (fluticasone, beclomethasone, prednisone, and others).

It is not known whether Cr-GTF will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant.

Chromium picolinate may pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

## Related/similar drugs

ferrous sulfate, folic acid, ergocalciferol, thiamine, Zinc

## How should I take Cr-GTF?

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to use Cr-GTF, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Check your blood sugar carefully if you are diabetic.

The recommended dietary allowance of chromium picolinate increases with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You may also consult the National Academy of Sciences "Dietary Reference Intake" or the U.S. Department of Agriculture's "Dietary Reference Intake" (formerly "Recommended Daily Allowances" or RDA) listings for more information.

Cr-GTF may be only part of a treatment program that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very carefully.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

## What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

## What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, blood in your urine or stools, or coughing up blood.

## What should I avoid while taking Cr-GTF?

Avoid a diet that is high in sugar. It may interfere with the effectiveness of chromium picolinate.

Ask your doctor before using an antacid, and use only the type your doctor recommends. Some antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb Cr-GTF.

## Cr-GTF side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Cr-GTF may cause serious side effects. Stop using Cr-GTF and call your doctor at once if you have:

- thinking problems, trouble concentrating;

- problems with balance or coordination; or

- liver problems--nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common side effects of Cr-GTF may include:

- headache;

- sleep problems (insomnia); or

- mood changes, feeling irritable.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Cr-GTF side effects (more detail)

## What other drugs will affect Cr-GTF?

Other drugs may interact with chromium picolinate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Cr-GTF drug interactions (more detail)

## Where can I get more information?

- Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

## More about Cr-GTF (chromium picolinate)

- Check interactions
- Side effects
- Drug class: minerals and electrolytes
- En español

### Patient resources

#### Other brands

CRM

### Related treatment guides

- Diabetes, Type 2
- Vitamin/Mineral Supplementation and Deficiency

## Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 2.02.