Indications
Vanadium is a trace mineral included in small amounts in some multivitamin and mineral supplements. It is sometimes promoted for blood sugar control, but this has not been proven, and it must never replace diabetes treatment prescribed by a doctor.
How It Works
Vanadium may affect how some enzymes and the insulin signal work inside cells. Whether people need it at all is not established, as normal food provides small amounts.
Dosage and Administration
Multivitamin products usually contain about 10 mcg. Take the product as directed on its label and do not take extra Vanadium on its own. Adults should not take more than 1.8 mg a day from all sources.
Interactions
At higher doses, Vanadium may add to the blood-sugar-lowering effect of Insulin, Metformin, Gliclazide and other diabetes medicines. It may also increase the effect of blood thinners such as Warfarin. No important interactions are expected at multivitamin amounts.
Contraindications
- Allergy to any ingredient of the product.
- Kidney disease: avoid high-dose Vanadium.
Side Effects
None expected at multivitamin amounts. Higher doses can cause stomach cramps, diarrhoea, wind, nausea, tiredness and a green-coloured tongue.
Get urgent medical help if you have swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or signs of very low blood sugar such as sweating, shaking and confusion.
Pregnancy and Lactation
The small amounts in standard multivitamins are not considered a concern. Avoid any higher-dose Vanadium supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Do not use Vanadium to treat diabetes. People with diabetes should check with their doctor before using it, and those with kidney disease should avoid extra Vanadium.
Overdose
Large amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain and may harm the kidneys. Seek medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Trace element (mineral supplement).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.