Nutritional Supplement

Molybdenum

Possible Deficiencies

Although molybdenum is an essential mineral, no deficiencies have been reported in humans.

Side Effects

Molybdenum is needed to convert purine to uric acid, and excessive intake could, in rare cases, increase uric acid levels and potentially trigger gout. Molybdenum interferes with the absorption of copper; long-term supplementation with molybdenum could, in theory, result in copper deficiency. Molybdenum has been reported to cause psychosis in a patient taking 300 to 800 mcg per day for 18 days. This report is as yet unsubstantiated by any other human or animal research.5

References

1. Anibarro B, Caballero T, Garcia-Ara C, et al. Asthma with sulfite intolerance in children: A blocking study with cyanocobalamin. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1992;90:103-9.

2. Johnson JL, Wuebbens MM, Mandell R, Shih VE. Molybdenum cofactor deficiency in a patient previously characterized as deficient in sulfite oxidase. Biochem Med Metabol Biol 1988;40:86-93.

3. Sardesai VM. Molybdenum: an essential trace element. Nutr Clin Pract 1993;8:277-81.

4. Moss M. Effects of molybdenum on pain and general health: a pilot study. J Nutr Environ Med 1995;5:55-61.

5. Momcilovic B. A case report of acute human molybdenum toxicity from a dietary molybdenum supplement—a new member of the “Lucor metallicum” family. Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 1999;50:289-97.

Copyright © 2024 TraceGains, Inc. All rights reserved.

Learn more about TraceGains, the company.

The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.