Copper is one of the trace minerals like Chromium that is essential to maintain your body’s function. Copper plays an important role in energy production, and the production of haemoglobin, connective tissues (e.g., collagen) and brain chemical messengers. The recommended daily dietary intake of Copper for adults is 900 mcg (men and non-pregnant women).
You should only take a Copper supplement when you have a Copper deficiency or are unable to take sufficient Copper from your diet. Copper deficiency can cause loss of colour in the hair and skin, anaemia (low iron blood levels), high cholesterol levels, osteoporosis and increased risk of infections.
Copper supplement is taken by mouth as tablets. The usual adult dose ranges from 0.2-4 mg daily.
Copper is generally safe to use. However, people with Wilson’s disease should avoid taking Copper supplements.
Most people should obtain adequate amounts of Copper from a healthy diet. Copper is present in many foods including shellfish, nuts, seeds, cereals, whole grains and chocolate.
Pay attention to the amount of Copper in different products as it can vary. Long-term intake of large amounts of Copper can cause liver damage and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as stomach pain, nausea and vomiting.
Common dosing schedule:
You can take Copper supplements with or without food.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Copper may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Copper supplements can be purchased without a prescription from any retail outlet in Hong Kong. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, medicine shops, and pharmacies. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Copper (Supplement) in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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