Herb & supplement monograph

Vanadium Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

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

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

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Vanadium 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

Check Vanadium against your medication

Add one medication
Vanadium
+
Start typing any prescription or over-the-counter drug name.
Reviewed by licensed pharmacists Sourced from Natural Medicines
On this page

Vanadium Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Vanadium drug interaction appears low for most people, though people on blood sugar medicines deserve extra care. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and the concerns rest largely on small studies or lab research rather than proven harm in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The best-documented concern involves diabetes medications. A few small studies in people with type 2 diabetes found that one form of vanadium improved insulin sensitivity and may lower blood glucose, so combining it with these drugs could add to their effect and raise the chance of low blood sugar. There is also a theoretical concern with anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs, since lab research suggests a form of vanadium may slow blood clotting, which could in theory add to bleeding risk. That effect has not been confirmed in people.

What the rest of the list means

Although vanadium is listed alongside a large number of medications, nearly all of those entries trace back to these two broad concerns, blood sugar and blood clotting. Most of the flagged combinations are theoretical, based on lab findings or very limited human data, and do not mean every pairing is harmful.

Check your medications against Vanadium

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Vanadium interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Vanadium

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

2,830 drugs
AbciximabReoPro
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Abciximab interaction
AbrocitinibCibinqo
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Abrocitinib interaction Abrocitinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Acarbose interaction Acarbose drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcenocoumarolSintrom
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Acenocoumarol interaction
Acetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interaction
Acetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
Acetaminophen, IbuprofenCombogesic
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen interaction
AcetohexamideDymelor
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Acetohexamide interaction
Acetylsalicylic AcidEntrophen
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Acetylsalicylic Acid interaction Acetylsalicylic Acid drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AlbiglutideTanzeum
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Albiglutide interaction
AlogliptinNesina
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Alogliptin interaction Alogliptin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Alogliptin, MetforminKazano
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Alogliptin, Metformin interaction
Alogliptin, PioglitazoneOseni
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Alogliptin, Pioglitazone interaction
Alteplase, TpaActilyse, Activase
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Alteplase, Tpa interaction
Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #2
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interaction
Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interaction Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Anacaulase-bcdbNexoBrid
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Anacaulase-bcdb interaction
AnagrelideAgrylin
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Anagrelide interaction Anagrelide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AnisindioneMiradon
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Anisindione interaction
Antidiabetes, Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (dpp-iv) InhibitorGlyxambi
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Antidiabetes, Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (dpp-iv) Inhibitor interaction
Antithrombin IiiThrombate III
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Antithrombin Iii interaction
ApixabanEliquis
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Apixaban interaction Apixaban drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
ArgatrobanArgatroban
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Argatroban interaction
AspirinAngettes 75, ASA, Asaphen, Aspirin, Caprin, Cartia +8 more
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Aspirin interaction Aspirin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #3
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interaction
Aspirin, ButalbitalAxotal
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Aspirin, Butalbital interaction
Aspirin, Butalbital, CaffeineFiorinal
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine interaction Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine PhosphateFiorinal w/ Codeine
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate interaction
Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, PhenacetinMarnal
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Phenacetin interaction
Aspirin, CaffeineAnacin
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Vanadium + Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
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 Vanadium 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 Vanadium affects

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

All 2 drug categories Vanadium interacts with
Anticoagulant/antiplatelet DrugsAntidiabetes Drugs
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro research shows that the sodium orthovanadate form of vanadium prolongs clotting time, likely through inhibition of thrombin and factor Xa.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
A few very small clinical studies in patients with type 2 diabetes show that the vanadyl sulfate form of vanadium increases insulin sensitivity and might lower blood glucose levels.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Monograph

Vanadium: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Vanadium is a trace mineral found in tiny amounts in food, and people get plenty from a normal diet. Supplement claims for diabetes, weight, and athletic performance are not well proven, and higher doses can be toxic. Most people do not need to supplement it, and you should check with your doctor or pharmacist before using it.

Vanadium
Part used
Trace mineral (not a plant); supplements use vanadium salts such as vanadyl sulfate or sodium metavanadate
Common forms
Capsules, tablets, often as vanadyl sulfate; sometimes in multivitamin or sports supplements
People commonly use it for
  • Blood sugar and diabetes support
  • Athletic performance and muscle building
  • Lowering cholesterol
  • General trace-mineral supplementation

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

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Small dietary amounts are fine, but supplement doses can cause side effects and may be toxic at high levels.

PregnancyLikely Safe

When used orally in amounts found in foods.

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingLikely Safe

When used orally in amounts found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of vanadium when used in amounts gre...

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

Vanadium is a chemical element and a trace mineral that the body contains in very small amounts. It is found naturally in soil, rocks, and water, and in foods such as mushrooms, shellfish, black pepper, parsley, grains, and some oils.

Most people get all the vanadium they need from a normal diet, usually a tiny amount each day. In supplements it is sold as forms like vanadyl sulfate or sodium metavanadate. These products are most often marketed for blood sugar control, bodybuilding, and athletic performance, though the science behind these uses is limited.

How it works

Vanadium is thought to affect how the body handles sugar. In laboratory and animal studies, vanadium compounds appear to mimic some actions of insulin, partly by blocking certain enzymes (called phosphatases) inside cells. This may help cells take up glucose.

It may also play a small role in how the body processes fats and minerals. Keep in mind that much of this research comes from test-tube and animal studies, so it is not clear how meaningful these effects are in healthy people taking normal amounts.

Effectiveness

Does Vanadium work?

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

Evidence overview · 7 uses evaluated
1 Likely effective 6 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 Vanadium deficiency
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral vanadium is effective for the prevention of vanadium deficiency.

Also studied for 6 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Athletic performance
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral vanadium for improving athletic performance, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of vanadium for this purpose.

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

Although there has been interest in using oral vanadium for cancer, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of vanadium for this purpose.

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

Small clinical studies suggest that high doses of oral vanadium may improve insulin sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes; however, these high doses may be unsafe. It is unclear if lower doses of vanadium have the same effects.

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

Although there has been interest in using oral vanadium for hyperlipidemia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of vanadium for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Impaired glucose tolerance (prediabetes)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral vanadium is beneficial in patients with impaired glucose tolerance.

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

Although there has been interest in using oral vanadium for tuberculosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of vanadium for this purpose.

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

The tiny amounts of vanadium found in food are considered safe. The concern is with higher-dose supplements, which can cause side effects and may be toxic.

People with diabetes should be especially careful, since vanadium may affect blood sugar and is often combined with other treatments. People with kidney problems should avoid supplements, since the kidneys clear vanadium from the body.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is not enough information to know if vanadium supplements are safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. To be safe, avoid supplement doses during these times and stick to a normal diet.

Always talk to your pharmacist or doctor before starting vanadium, especially if you have a health condition or take other medicines.

Side effects

At supplement doses, vanadium commonly causes stomach problems such as nausea, diarrhea, cramping, and gas. Some people notice a green coloring of the tongue.

Higher doses or long-term use may lead to more serious problems, and very high intakes can be toxic, possibly affecting the kidneys and other organs. If you notice unusual symptoms while taking vanadium, stop and contact a healthcare provider.

Vanadium: Reported Adverse Effects

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

Orally, vanadium is well tolerated when taken in amounts below the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 1.8 mg daily. Higher doses may cause adverse effects.

Most Common Adverse Effects:

Orally: Gastrointestinal adverse effects, including abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, flatulence, and nausea, when taken at doses above the UL.

Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):

Orally: Kidney damage, when taken long-term at high doses.

Topically: Contact dermatitis and other allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Reports by condition
Dermatitis Dermatologic

Allergic reactions to vanadium metal have been reported. A 68-year-old female developed an itchy, erythematous rash, ocular pruritus, and a positive skin test to vanadium after implantation of a vanadium-containing knee prosthesis. Contact dermatitis, presenting as pruritic eczema of the hand, and a positive skin patch test to vanadium was reported in a 39-year-old male who worked with vanadium-containing tools.

  1. Peat F, Coomber R, Rana A, Vince A. Vanadium allergy following total knee arthroplasty. BMJ Case Rep 2018;2018. pii: bcr-2017-222092. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2017-222092.
  2. Garcia-Nunez I, Algaba-Marmol MA, Suarez-Vergara M, et al. Vanadium contact dermatitis: case report and studies performed. Contact Dermatitis 2019;80(2):127-8.
Dermatitis Immunologic

Allergic reactions to vanadium metal have been reported. A 68-year-old female developed an itchy, erythematous rash, ocular pruritus, and a positive skin test to vanadium after implantation of a vanadium-containing knee prosthesis. Contact dermatitis, presenting as pruritic eczema of the hand, and a positive skin patch test to vanadium was reported in a 39-year-old male who worked with vanadium-containing tools.

Higher levels of vanadium in the body have been associated with a weakened immune system in children, as measured by reductions in CD3+ and CD4+ cell counts. However, it is unclear if oral supplementation with vanadium causes a weakened immune system or increases the risk of infection.

  1. Peat F, Coomber R, Rana A, Vince A. Vanadium allergy following total knee arthroplasty. BMJ Case Rep 2018;2018. pii: bcr-2017-222092. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2017-222092.
  2. Garcia-Nunez I, Algaba-Marmol MA, Suarez-Vergara M, et al. Vanadium contact dermatitis: case report and studies performed. Contact Dermatitis 2019;80(2):127-8.
  3. Zhang W, Chen H, Zeng Q, Xu S, Xia W, Li Y. Prenatal and postnatal exposure to vanadium and the immune function of children. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2021;67:126787.
Diabetes Renal

In some cases, patients with diabetes have used very high doses (100 mg daily) of vanadium safely for up to 4 weeks. However, there is concern based on animal research that prolonged use of high doses might cause serious side effects including kidney damage. High body levels of vanadium have also been associated with an increased incidence of kidney stones, distal renal tubular acidosis, hypokalemic periodic paralysis, and sudden unexplained nocturnal death.

  1. Halberstam M, Cohen N, Shlimovich P, et al. Oral vanadyl sulfate improves insulin sensitivity in NIDDM but not in obese nondiabetic subjects. Diabetes 1996;45:659-66.
  2. Cohen N, Halberstam M, Shlimovich P, et al. Oral vanadyl sulfate improves hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivity in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. J Clin Invest 1995;95:2501-9.
  3. Boden G, Chen X, Ruiz J, et al. Effects of vanadyl sulfate on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Metabolism 1996;45:1130-5.
  4. 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.
  5. Sitprija V, Tungsanga K, Tosukhowong P, et al. Metabolic problems in northeastern Thailand: possible role of vanadium. Mineral Electrolyte Metab 1998;19:51-6.
Diabetes Endocrine

In some cases, patients with diabetes have used very high doses (100 mg daily) safely for up to 4 weeks. However, high body levels of vanadium have been associated with an increased incidence malnutrition-related diabetes mellitus.

  1. Halberstam M, Cohen N, Shlimovich P, et al. Oral vanadyl sulfate improves insulin sensitivity in NIDDM but not in obese nondiabetic subjects. Diabetes 1996;45:659-66.
  2. Cohen N, Halberstam M, Shlimovich P, et al. Oral vanadyl sulfate improves hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivity in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. J Clin Invest 1995;95:2501-9.
  3. Boden G, Chen X, Ruiz J, et al. Effects of vanadyl sulfate on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Metabolism 1996;45:1130-5.
  4. Sitprija V, Tungsanga K, Tosukhowong P, et al. Metabolic problems in northeastern Thailand: possible role of vanadium. Mineral Electrolyte Metab 1998;19:51-6.
Diarrhea Gastrointestinal

Orally, vanadium most commonly causes mild gastrointestinal upset. There is concern that taking doses exceeding the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 1.8 mg per day can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects and possibly lead to more severe toxicity. At higher doses, vanadium frequently causes gastrointestinal effects including abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, nausea, and flatulence. Doses of 22.5 mg daily can also cause cramps. Vanadium has also been associated with green discoloration of the tongue, which is unrelated to dose.

  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.
  2. Harland BF, Harden-Williams BA. Is vanadium of human nutritional importance yet? J Am Diet Assoc 1994;94:891-4.
  3. Halberstam M, Cohen N, Shlimovich P, et al. Oral vanadyl sulfate improves insulin sensitivity in NIDDM but not in obese nondiabetic subjects. Diabetes 1996;45:659-66.
  4. Cohen N, Halberstam M, Shlimovich P, et al. Oral vanadyl sulfate improves hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivity in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. J Clin Invest 1995;95:2501-9.
  5. Boden G, Chen X, Ruiz J, et al. Effects of vanadyl sulfate on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Metabolism 1996;45:1130-5.
  6. Goldfine AB, Simonson DC, Folli F, et al. Metabolic effects of sodium metavanadate in humans with insulin-dependent and noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus in vivo and in vitro studies. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1995;80:3311-20.
  7. Cusi K, Cukier S, DeFronzo RA, et al. Vanadyl sulfate improves hepatic and muscle insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetes. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2001;86:1410-7.
Fatigue Neurologic/CNS

Orally, vanadium has been rarely associated with fatigue, lethargy, and focal neurological lesions, which are unrelated to dose.

  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.
Hypertension Cardiovascular

Higher levels of vanadium in the body have been associated with a greater risk for hypertension. However, it is unclear if oral supplementation with vanadium causes elevated blood pressure.

  1. Jiang S, Zhou S, Liu H, et al. Concentrations of vanadium in urine with hypertension prevalence and blood pressure levels. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2021;213:112028.
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 established standard supplement dose for vanadium, and there is no recognized daily requirement for it as a separate supplement because the diet provides what the body needs. Studies in diabetes used high doses that are not considered safe for general use.

If you choose to take a product, follow the directions on the label and do not exceed them. Because higher amounts can be harmful, it is best to check with your pharmacist or doctor before using vanadium and to avoid "megadose" products.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Vanadium & Pregnancy

Likely Safe

When used orally in amounts found in foods.

  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 medicinal amounts. Epidemiological research has found that increased urinary levels of vanadium are associated with an increased risk of both term and preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM). When comparing tertiles of urinary vanadium levels, patients in the middle tertile had 1.66 times the risk of term PROM when compared with the lowest tertile, and those in the highest tertile had 3.75 times the risk. For preterm PROM (rupture prior to 37 weeks' gestation), those in the highest tertile had an 8.14 times increased risk when compared with those in the lowest tertile. Epidemiological research has also found that higher prenatal serum levels of vanadium are associated with impaired fetal growth, particularly in male newborns. The risk appears greatest with vanadium exposure in the second trimester.

  1. Jin S, Xia W, Jiang Y, et al. Urinary vanadium concentration in relation to premature rupture of membranes: A birth cohort study. Chemosphere 2018;210:1035-41. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.07.110.
  2. Zhou Y, Zhu Q, Ma W, et al. Prenatal vanadium exposure, cytokine expression, and fetal growth: a gender-specific analysis in Shanghai MCPC study. Sci Total Environ 2019;685:1152-9.

Vanadium & Breastfeeding

Likely Safe

When used orally in amounts found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of vanadium when used in amounts greater than those typically found in foods; avoid using.

  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 15 references that drive our Vanadium 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. Harland BF, Harden-Williams BA. Is vanadium of human nutritional importance yet? J Am Diet Assoc 1994;94:891-4. PubMed
  2. Sitprija V, Tungsanga K, Tosukhowong P, et al. Metabolic problems in northeastern Thailand: possible role of vanadium. Mineral Electrolyte Metab 1998;19:51-6.
  3. Funakoshi T, Shimada H, Kojima S, et al. Anticoagulant action of vanadate. Chem Pharmaceut Bull 1992;40:174-6. PubMed
  4. Halberstam M, Cohen N, Shlimovich P, et al. Oral vanadyl sulfate improves insulin sensitivity in NIDDM but not in obese nondiabetic subjects. Diabetes 1996;45:659-66. PubMed
  5. Cohen N, Halberstam M, Shlimovich P, et al. Oral vanadyl sulfate improves hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivity in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. J Clin Invest 1995;95:2501-9. PubMed
  6. Boden G, Chen X, Ruiz J, et al. Effects of vanadyl sulfate on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Metabolism 1996;45:1130-5.
  7. 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.
  8. Goldfine AB, Simonson DC, Folli F, et al. Metabolic effects of sodium metavanadate in humans with insulin-dependent and noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus in vivo and in vitro studies. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1995;80:3311-20. PubMed
  9. Cusi K, Cukier S, DeFronzo RA, et al. Vanadyl sulfate improves hepatic and muscle insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetes. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2001;86:1410-7.
  10. Peat F, Coomber R, Rana A, Vince A. Vanadium allergy following total knee arthroplasty. BMJ Case Rep 2018;2018. pii: bcr-2017-222092. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2017-222092. PubMed
  11. Jin S, Xia W, Jiang Y, et al. Urinary vanadium concentration in relation to premature rupture of membranes: A birth cohort study. Chemosphere 2018;210:1035-41. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.07.110. PubMed
  12. Garcia-Nunez I, Algaba-Marmol MA, Suarez-Vergara M, et al. Vanadium contact dermatitis: case report and studies performed. Contact Dermatitis 2019;80(2):127-8. PubMed
  13. Zhou Y, Zhu Q, Ma W, et al. Prenatal vanadium exposure, cytokine expression, and fetal growth: a gender-specific analysis in Shanghai MCPC study. Sci Total Environ 2019;685:1152-9. PubMed
  14. Jiang S, Zhou S, Liu H, et al. Concentrations of vanadium in urine with hypertension prevalence and blood pressure levels. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2021;213:112028. PubMed
  15. Zhang W, Chen H, Zeng Q, Xu S, Xia W, Li Y. Prenatal and postnatal exposure to vanadium and the immune function of children. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2021;67:126787. 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 Vanadium

666 brands in our database make a supplement containing Vanadium.

Product directory

Supplement products with Vanadium

4,709 products in our database contain Vanadium. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

+Blood Sugar Glucose Regulation Complex by Shaklee Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 1 Vitamin + Mineral by Pioneer Tablet Or Pill 120 Vegetarian Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 10X Life by Max Drive Nutrition Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 2 Shredded by Beast Capsule 120 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 21 Multi by Somaplex Liquid 3.38 fl. Oz. · 100 mL View ingredients & interactions 4Life Transfer Factor Plus RiteStart Men by 4Life Unknown 30 Packet(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 Plus by GNC Mega Men Unknown 60 Caplet(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 Plus by GNC Mega Men Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 120 Caplet(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 Plus by GNC Women's Ultra Mega Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 60 Caplet(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 Plus by GNC Women's Ultra Mega Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 120 Caplet(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 Plus by GNC Mega Men Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 60 Caplet(s) View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Vanadium: Common Questions

What is Vanadium used for, and does it work?
People use Vanadium for many reasons, but the evidence varies by use. According to the Natural Medicines database, there is at least some clinical evidence supporting Vanadium for Vanadium 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 Vanadium interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 208 medications with a known interaction with Vanadium. Use the checker above to see how Vanadium interacts with a specific drug.
How are Vanadium 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 Vanadium 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 Vanadium 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 Vanadium used for?
People most often take Vanadium supplements for blood sugar control, bodybuilding, athletic performance, or cholesterol. However, there is little strong evidence that it works for any of these.
Do I need to take a Vanadium supplement?
Most people get enough Vanadium from a normal diet and do not need a supplement. There is no proven benefit to taking extra, and high doses can be harmful.
Is Vanadium safe?
Small amounts from food are safe, but supplement doses can cause stomach upset and may be toxic at high levels. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using it.
Can I take Vanadium while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No reliable safety information exists, so it is best to avoid Vanadium supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding and rely on a normal diet instead.

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

Keep exploring

Products that contain Vanadium

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

See all 4,709 products with Vanadium →
Where next
Supplement interaction checkerCheck any supplement or product against your medications Drug–drug interactionsCheck two or more of your medications against each other Browse medications A–ZEvery drug we’ve checked against herbs & supplements NDC & pricing lookupFind a drug’s NDCs, packaging and costs Ask a pharmacistFree, personal answer from our licensed team

Have a question about Vanadium?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist