Herb & supplement monograph

Copper Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Copper interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Copper is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Copper is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Copper

31 medications have a known interaction with Copper, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2,830 drugs
PenicillamineCuprimine, Depen Titratable
Moderate Penicillamine (cuprimine, Depen)

Theoretically, taking copper with penicillamine might decrease the absorption of penicillamine; separate dosing by at least 2 hours.

Read the full Copper + Penicillamine interaction Penicillamine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Birth Control PillsBirth control pills
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Birth Control Pills interaction
Desogestrel, Ethinyl EstradiolDesogen, Marvelon, Marvelon 21, Marvelon 28, Mircette, Ortho-Cept +2 more
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Desogestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol interaction
DrospirenoneDrospirenone
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Drospirenone interaction
Drospirenone, EstetrolNextstellis
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Drospirenone, Estetrol interaction
Drospirenone, Ethinyl EstradiolAngeliq, Gianvi, Yasmin
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Drospirenone, Ethinyl Estradiol interaction
Ethiny Estradiol, LevonorgestrelLogynon, Microgynon 30 ED
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Ethiny Estradiol, Levonorgestrel interaction
Ethinyl Estradiol, DesogestrelApri, Cesia, Cyclessa, Gedarel, Kariva, Linessa +4 more
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Ethinyl Estradiol, Desogestrel interaction
Ethinyl Estradiol, DrospirenoneYaz
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Ethinyl Estradiol, Drospirenone interaction
Ethinyl Estradiol, Ethynodiol DiacetateDemulen 1/35, Demulen 1/50, Demulen Compack, Kelnor 1/35, Zovia, Zovia 1/35 +1 more
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Ethinyl Estradiol, Ethynodiol Diacetate interaction
Ethinyl Estradiol, LevonorgestrelAlesse, Alesse 21, Alesse 28, Aviane, Enpresse, Jolessa +18 more
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonorgestrel interaction
Ethinyl Estradiol, NorethindroneAranelle, Brevicon, Brevicon .5/35 21 day, Brevicon .5/35 28 day, Brevicon 1/35 21 day, Brevicon 1/35 28 day +50 more
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Ethinyl Estradiol, Norethindrone interaction
Ethinyl Estradiol, Norethindrone, Ferrous FumarateEstrostep Fe, Femcon FE, Junel Fe 1.5/30, Loestrin Fe, Loestrin Fe 1.5/30, Loestrin Fe 1/20 +3 more
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Ethinyl Estradiol, Norethindrone, Ferrous Fumarate interaction
Ethinyl Estradiol, NorgestimateCilest, Mononessa, Ortho Tri-Cyclen 28, Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo, Ortho Tri-Cylcen, Ortho-Cyclen +5 more
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Ethinyl Estradiol, Norgestimate interaction
Ethinyl Estradiol, NorgestrelCryselle, Lo/Ovral, Low-Ogestrel, Ogestrel 0.5/50, Ovral
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Ethinyl Estradiol, Norgestrel interaction
Ethinyl Estradiol, LevonogestrelLybrel
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonogestrel interaction
Ethynodiol Diacetate, MestranolOvulen
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Ethynodiol Diacetate, Mestranol interaction
EtonogestrelImplanon
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Etonogestrel interaction
Etonogestrel, Ethinyl EstradiolNuvaRing
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Etonogestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol interaction
GestodeneMinesse
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Gestodene interaction
Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Potassium BitartratePhexxi
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Potassium Bitartrate interaction Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Potassium Bitartrate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
LevonorgestrelKyleena, Levonelle 1500, Levonelle One Step, Liletta, Mirena, Norgeston +2 more
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Levonorgestrel interaction Levonorgestrel drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Levonorgestrel, Ethinyl EstradiolLogynon ED, Microgynon 30, Nordette, Ovranette, Quartette, Trinordiol +1 more
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Levonorgestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol interaction
Mestranol, NorethindroneNecon 1/50, Nelova 1/50M, Norethin 1/50, Norethin 1/50M, Norinyl 1 50 21 Day, Ortho Novum 1 Plus 50 +2 more
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Mestranol, Norethindrone interaction
Mestranol, NorethynodrelEnovid-E
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Mestranol, Norethynodrel interaction
Norelgestromin, Ethinyl EstradiolEvra, Ortho Evra
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Norelgestromin, Ethinyl Estradiol interaction
Norethindrone Acetate, Ethinyl Estradiol, Ferrous FumarateLoMinastrin FE, Minastrin 24 FE
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Norethindrone Acetate, Ethinyl Estradiol, Ferrous Fumarate interaction
NorgestrelOrval 21, Ovrette
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Norgestrel interaction Norgestrel drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Segesterone Acetate, Ethinyl EstradiolAnnovera
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Segesterone Acetate, Ethinyl Estradiol interaction
Ulipristal AcetateElla
Minor Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.

Read the full Copper + Ulipristal Acetate interaction Ulipristal Acetate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Copper combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Copper affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Copper is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 2 drug categories Copper interacts with
Penicillamine (cuprimine, Depen)Contraceptive Drugs
Penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)

Theoretically, taking copper with penicillamine might decrease the absorption of penicillamine; separate dosing by at least 2 hours.
Copper chelates penicillamine, which decreases its absorption and may reduce its clinical effects.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.
A meta-analysis of clinical studies suggests that chronic use of oral contraceptives increases serum copper levels by a mean of 57 mcg/dL. In most people, this resulted in levels above the normal reference range for copper.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Copper: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Copper is an essential trace mineral your body needs in small amounts for making red blood cells, supporting nerves and bones, and helping enzymes work. Most people get enough copper from food, and supplements are mainly useful for diagnosed deficiency. Too much copper can be harmful, so do not take high doses without medical advice.

Part used
Copper is an essential trace mineral (element Cu)
Common forms
Tablets, capsules, multivitamin/mineral products; forms include copper gluconate, copper sulfate, copper citrate, and cupric oxide
People commonly use it for
  • Preventing or treating copper deficiency
  • Supporting red blood cell formation
  • Bone and connective tissue health
  • Immune support
  • Antioxidant defense
  • Balancing high zinc intake

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Safe in amounts found in food and standard supplements, but excess copper can be toxic.

PregnancyLikely Safe

When used orally and appropriately. Copper is safe in amounts that do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 8 mg daily for those 14-18 y...

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingLikely Safe

When used orally and appropriately. Copper is safe in amounts that do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 8 mg daily for those 14-18 y...

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Copper is an essential trace mineral, which means your body needs only a small amount but cannot work properly without it. It is not an herb or plant; it is a metal element (symbol Cu) found naturally in many foods.

Good food sources include shellfish (especially oysters), organ meats like liver, nuts, seeds, whole grains, beans, and dark chocolate. Because copper is widespread in the diet, most healthy people who eat a varied diet get enough without supplements.

Copper is sold on its own and as part of many multivitamin and mineral products. It is most often used to prevent or correct a copper deficiency, which is uncommon but can happen in certain situations.

How it works

Copper is a key part (a cofactor) of several enzymes your body uses every day. These copper-dependent enzymes help your body make energy, build connective tissue, form red blood cells, support nerve and brain function, and produce skin and hair pigment.

One important copper enzyme helps the body absorb and use iron, which is why copper deficiency can lead to anemia. Another copper enzyme is part of the body's natural antioxidant defenses, helping protect cells from damage.

Copper and zinc compete for absorption in the gut. Taking large amounts of one can lower the other. This is why very high zinc intake can cause copper deficiency, and why balance matters.

Effectiveness

Does Copper work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 20 uses evaluated
1 Likely effective 1 Leans ineffective 18 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.
Likely Effective Copper deficiency
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral or intravenous copper is beneficial for treatment of copper deficiency.

Possibly Ineffective Alzheimer disease
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral copper does not seem to be beneficial for Alzheimer disease.

Also studied for 18 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Acne
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral copper has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Brain tumor
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral copper is beneficial for use in glioblastoma.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cardiovascular disease (CVD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral copper for CVD prevention, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of copper for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Chemotherapy-induced acral erythema
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral copper has only been evaluated in combination with resveratrol; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Chemotherapy-induced anemia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral copper has only been evaluated in combination with resveratrol; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Chemotherapy-induced diarrhea
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral copper has only been evaluated in combination with resveratrol; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Chemotherapy-induced leukopenia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral copper has only been evaluated in combination with resveratrol; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral copper has only been evaluated in combination with resveratrol; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if compression stockings containing copper are beneficial for lipodermatosclerosis in patients with CVI.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dental plaque
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if rinsing the mouth with copper is beneficial for reducing dental plaque.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diarrhea
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral copper has only been evaluated in combination with zinc; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Oral mucositis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral copper has only been evaluated in combination with resveratrol; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Osteoarthritis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using topical copper for osteoarthritis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of copper for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Osteoporosis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral copper has only been evaluated in combination with other minerals; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Postoperative infection
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if copper-impregnated wound dressings are beneficial for the prevention of postoperative infection.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral copper is beneficial for improving symptoms of SLE.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Tinea pedis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using topical copper for tinea pedis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of copper for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Wound healing
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical copper sulfate can improve the healing of umbilical granuloma.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Copper from food and from standard supplement amounts is generally safe for most people. However, copper can be toxic in excess, so it is important not to take high doses without a reason and medical supervision. Experts have set an upper safe limit for daily copper intake for adults; exceeding it over time raises the risk of harm.

People with Wilson's disease, a genetic condition that causes copper to build up in the body, must avoid copper supplements and may need to limit copper in their diet. People with liver disease should also be cautious, since the liver handles copper.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Copper is needed during these times, and recommended amounts from food and prenatal vitamins are considered acceptable. However, you should not take extra high-dose copper supplements unless your doctor recommends it. When in doubt, stick to a prenatal vitamin and check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Side effects

At recommended amounts, copper rarely causes problems. Taking too much copper can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea.

Long-term excess copper can build up and damage the liver and other organs. Very large single doses can cause serious copper poisoning, which is a medical emergency. Symptoms of overload can include severe stomach upset, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), and feeling very unwell.

If you notice ongoing stomach upset or other unusual symptoms while taking copper, stop and talk to a healthcare professional.

Copper: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Copper from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Reports by condition
Burns Dermatologic

Contact dermatitis caused by copper has been reported rarely. A case report describes a 5-year-old male who developed recurrent fingertip dermatitis and a positive skin test to copper after playing with toy cars made with a copper-containing alloy. Also, in a small clinical trial in children 1-3 months of age with umbilical granuloma, 3 of 33 children receiving a single topical application of copper sulfate developed superficial burns, whereas no superficial burns occurred in those receiving topical sodium chloride.

In one case report, a 68-year-old male with type 2 diabetes and peripheral neuropathy developed second- and third-degree burns after wearing a copper-containing compression sock on the right leg for 3 hours while sitting in the sun. The patient received treatment with topical silver sulfadiazine and oral clindamycin. After 6 weeks, the patient was found to have multiple persistent wounds containing necrotic tissue which required debridement, daily dressing changes, and tubular compression. It is thought that the heat conductance of copper magnified the effects of sun exposure in this case.

  1. Walker-Smith PK, Keith DJ, Kennedy CT, Sansom JE. Allergic contact dermatitis caused by copper. Contact Dermatitis 2016;75(3):186-7.
  2. Chung KJ, Chin YM, Wong MS, Sanmugam A, Singaravel S, Nah SA. Effectiveness of table salt versus copper sulphate in treating umbilical granuloma: A pilot randomized controlled trial. J Pediatr Surg 2022;57(2):261-265.
  3. Gallentine A. Third-degree burn on the neuropathic lower extremity in a patient with diabetes while wearing a copper-containing compression sock: a case report. Wound Manag Prev 2021;67(12):26-29.
Diabetes Endocrine

There is evidence from observational studies that people with diabetes (type 1 or type 2) have higher copper levels in their blood than people without diabetes, although not all studies have shown this. It is not known if elevated copper levels contribute to development or worsening of diabetes.

  1. Qui Q, Zhang F, Zhu W, Wu J, Liang M. Copper in diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis and systematic review of plasma and serum studies. Biol Trace Elem Res 2017;177(1):53-63.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no single "best" supplement dose for everyone. The amount your body needs each day is small and is usually met through diet. If you take a supplement, it is best to use the amount on the product label or the amount your doctor recommends.

For diagnosed copper deficiency, a doctor will choose the right dose and monitor your levels. Do not try to self-treat a suspected deficiency with high doses.

Because copper can be harmful in excess, avoid taking more than the labeled amount, and avoid stacking several products that all contain copper. A pharmacist can help you check the total copper in your supplements.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Copper & Pregnancy

Likely Safe

When used orally and appropriately. Copper is safe in amounts that do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 8 mg daily for those 14-18 years of age or 10 mg daily for those 19 years and older.

  1. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2002.
Possibly Unsafe

When used orally in doses exceeding the UL. Higher intake can cause liver damage.

  1. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2002.

Copper & Breastfeeding

Likely Safe

When used orally and appropriately. Copper is safe in amounts that do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 8 mg daily for those 14-18 years of age or 10 mg daily for those 19 years and older.

  1. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2002.
Possibly Unsafe

When used orally in doses exceeding the UL. Higher intake can cause liver damage.

  1. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2002.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 11 references that drive our Copper monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. Murry JJ, Healy MD. Drug-mineral interactions: a new responsibility for the hospital dietician. J Am Diet Assoc 1991;91:66-73.
  2. Campbell IA, Elmes PC. Ethambutol and the eye: zinc and copper (letter). Lancet 1975;2:711. DOI
  3. Segal S, Kaminski S. Drug-nutrient interactions. American Druggist 1996 Jul;42-8.
  4. Kozak SF, Inderlied CB, Hsu HY, et al. The role of copper on ethambutol's antimicrobial action and implications for ethambutol-induced optic neuropathy. Diag Microbiol Infect Dis 1998;30:83-7. PubMed
  5. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2002.
  6. Cantilena LR, Klaassen CD. The effect of chelating agents on the excretion of endogenous metals. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1982;63:344-50.
  7. Babic Z, Tariba B, Kovacic J, Pizent A, Varnai VM, Macan J. Relevance of serum copper elevation induced by oral contraceptives: a meta-analysis. Contraception. 2013 Jun;87(6):790-800. PubMed
  8. Qui Q, Zhang F, Zhu W, Wu J, Liang M. Copper in diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis and systematic review of plasma and serum studies. Biol Trace Elem Res 2017;177(1):53-63.
  9. Walker-Smith PK, Keith DJ, Kennedy CT, Sansom JE. Allergic contact dermatitis caused by copper. Contact Dermatitis 2016;75(3):186-7. PubMed
  10. Gallentine A. Third-degree burn on the neuropathic lower extremity in a patient with diabetes while wearing a copper-containing compression sock: a case report. Wound Manag Prev 2021;67(12):26-29. DOI
  11. Chung KJ, Chin YM, Wong MS, Sanmugam A, Singaravel S, Nah SA. Effectiveness of table salt versus copper sulphate in treating umbilical granuloma: A pilot randomized controlled trial. J Pediatr Surg 2022;57(2):261-265. PubMed
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Copper

1,470 brands in our database make a supplement containing Copper.

Product directory

Supplement products with Copper

14,254 products in our database contain Copper. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Xtreme Size Up Chocolate by MET-Rx Powder 6 lb · 2.721 kg Off market View ingredients & interactions Xtreme Size Up Chocolate by MET-Rx Powder 6 lb · 2.721 kg Off market View ingredients & interactions Xtreme Size Up Chocolate by MET-Rx Powder 6 lb · 2.721 kg Off market View ingredients & interactions Xtreme Size Up Vanilla by MET-Rx Powder 6 lb · 2.721 kg Off market View ingredients & interactions Xtreme Size Up Vanilla by MET-Rx Powder 6 lb · 2.721 kg Off market View ingredients & interactions Xtreme Size Up Vanilla by MET-Rx Powder 6 lb · 2.721 kg Off market View ingredients & interactions Xtreme Size Up Vanilla by MET-Rx Powder 6 lb · 2.721 kg Off market View ingredients & interactions XX by Essential Beginnings Tablet Or Pill 120 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions XY by Essential Beginnings Tablet Or Pill 180 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Y.P.D. Support Formula by Douglas Laboratories Tablet Or Pill 120 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Yeast Free Vegetarian Multi by GNLD Nutritionals Tablet Or Pill 120 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Yellow Round Tablet Vitamin & Mineral by Bronson Tablet Or Pill 60 Packet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Young Men's Multivitamin Plus Healthy Skin by Rainbow Light Vibrance Tablet Or Pill 180 Mini-Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Your Life Multi Green Source by Nature's Bounty Capsule 60 Coated Caplet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Your Life Multi Prenatal by Nature's Bounty Softgel Capsule 60 Softgel(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Your Life Multi Prenatal Specialty Formula by Nature's Bounty Softgel Capsule 60 Softgel(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Z by Essential Beginnings Tablet Or Pill 120 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Z+ by Essential Beginnings Tablet Or Pill 120 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Zinc by Source Naturals Tablet Or Pill 250 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Zinc by Higher Nature Tablet Or Pill 90 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Zinc by Higher Nature Tablet Or Pill 90 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Zinc by Higher Nature Tablet Or Pill 90 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Zinc 15 mg by BIOVEA Capsule 120 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Zinc 15 mg by BIOVEA Capsule 120 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions
Drug-induced depletion

Medications associated with Copper depletion

4 medications in our licensed clinical database have been associated with lower Copper levels. An association is not a guarantee — it is a talking point for your pharmacist.

See all medications that may deplete Copper

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Copper: Common Questions

What is Copper used for, and does it work?
People use Copper for many reasons, but the evidence varies by use. According to the Natural Medicines database, there is at least some clinical evidence supporting Copper for Copper deficiency. For most other uses it has been studied for, the evidence is currently insufficient to rate. See the graded list on this page, and always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Does Copper interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 31 medications with a known interaction with Copper. Use the checker above to see how Copper interacts with a specific drug.
How are Copper interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Copper with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Copper interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What is Copper used for?
Copper is an essential mineral needed for making red blood cells, supporting nerves and bones, and helping certain enzymes work. As a supplement, it is mainly used to prevent or treat Copper deficiency.
Do I need to take a Copper supplement?
Most people get enough Copper from a normal varied diet and do not need a supplement. Supplements are mainly helpful for people with a diagnosed deficiency or certain risk factors, so check with your doctor first.
Can taking too much Copper be dangerous?
Yes. Excess Copper can cause nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain, and long-term overload can damage the liver. Stay within recommended amounts and avoid high-dose products unless advised.
Is Copper safe during pregnancy?
Copper is needed during pregnancy, and the amounts in food and prenatal vitamins are generally considered acceptable. Avoid extra high-dose Copper supplements and talk to your doctor about your prenatal vitamin.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Keep exploring

Products that contain Copper

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Copper — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

See all 14,254 products with Copper →
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