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Serenol

Generic name: chromium picolinate

Brand names: CRM, Serenol, Cr-GTF

Used for diabetes
Last updated November 3, 2026 0 views
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What is Serenol?

Chromium is a mineral found in some foods. The body only needs small amounts of chromium, and it's rare for people to be deficient in this mineral.

Serenol works with insulin made by the pancreas to help break down carbohydrates.

Serenol has been used in alternative medicine to treat chromium deficiency, help control blood sugar in people with diabetes or prediabetes, lower cholesterol, and aid in weight loss.

Not all uses of Serenol have been approved by the FDA. This medicine should not replace any medication prescribed by your doctor.

Serenol is often sold as an herbal supplement. Many herbal products do not have regulated manufacturing standards, and some supplements on the market have been found to be contaminated with harmful metals or other drugs. It is important to buy herbal/health supplements from a trustworthy source to reduce the risk of contamination.

Serenol may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this product guide.

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How should I take Serenol?

When thinking about using herbal supplements, talk to your doctor. You may also want to consult someone who is trained in herbal or health supplements.

If you decide to use Serenol, take it as directed on the package or as instructed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not take more of this product than what is recommended on the label.

If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar levels carefully.

The recommended dietary allowance of chromium picolinate goes up with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You can also refer to 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.

Serenol might be just one part of a treatment plan that could also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Be sure to follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very carefully.

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

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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.

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Before taking this medicine

Before using Serenol, 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 Serenol 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.

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Serenol 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.

Serenol may cause serious side effects. Stop using Serenol and call your doctor right away if you have:

  • thinking problems, trouble concentrating;
  • problems with balance or coordination; or
  • liver problems--nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, feeling tired, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common side effects of Serenol 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.

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What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

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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.

  • 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 Serenol.

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What other drugs will affect Serenol?

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

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Related medicines

Before you take this medicine: the information on this page is general and may not cover your personal circumstances. Read the label supplied with your medicine and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines or managing a long-term condition.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.