Suspected Chromium-Induced Acute Pancreatitis: Highlighting the Risks of Over-the-Counter Supplements
Abstract
Drug-induced pancreatitis accounts for a small percentage of acute pancreatitis cases, and supplement-induced cases are poorly characterized. We report a 59-year-old woman presenting with acute interstitial pancreatitis after recent initiation of an over-the-counter supplement containing chromium polynicotinate and herbal additives. She lacked traditional risk factors, and imaging showed no biliary disease. Lipase exceeded 3000 U/L, and serum chromium was elevated (0.5 ng/mL). Symptoms improved with supportive care and supplement discontinuation. This case suggests a potential association between chromium-containing supplements and pancreatitis, highlighting the need for thorough supplement histories in idiopathic cases and greater awareness of possible pancreatic toxicity from nutraceuticals.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Chromium effects and bioremediation
Drug-Induced Hepatotoxicity and Protection
Potassium and Related Disorders
Publication details
- Journal / source
- ACG Case Reports Journal
- Publisher
- Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
- Volume
- 13
- Issue
- 4
- Pages
- e02079–e02079
- Publication date
- 1 April 2026
- Language
- EN