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Cupric Chloride

Also known as: Copper(II) chloride, cupric chloride, CuCl₂, Cupric chloride

Overview

Cupric chloride is an inorganic compound that provides copper ions, an essential trace element vital for numerous enzymatic processes within the human body. It is primarily utilized as a copper supplement in clinical settings, frequently incorporated into parenteral nutrition formulations to prevent or treat copper deficiency. Copper is naturally present in various foods, including shellfish, nuts, seeds, and organ meats, and cupric chloride offers a bioavailable source of this crucial mineral for supplementation. While the biological roles of copper and the treatment of its deficiency are well-understood, specific research data on cupric chloride as a standalone supplement form are limited. The existing evidence on copper supplementation's effects varies, with systematic reviews available on its impact on lipid profiles and animal growth performance, though human randomized controlled trial (RCT) data specifically for cupric chloride are sparse.

Benefits

A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on general copper supplementation (not exclusively cupric chloride) found no significant effect on blood lipid levels (total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C) in humans, based on data from 176 participants across 5 trials. This suggests that while copper is essential, its supplementation may not directly improve lipid profiles. However, animal studies, such as those involving piglets, indicate that dietary copper supplementation can improve weight gain and feed conversion, particularly during early growth phases, highlighting copper's role in growth and metabolism. The most well-established benefit of copper supplementation, including through cupric chloride, is the prevention and treatment of deficiency-related conditions like anemia, neutropenia, and neurological symptoms. These benefits are critical for overall health but are attributed to copper as an essential nutrient rather than being unique to the cupric chloride form.

How it works

Upon ingestion or administration, cupric chloride dissociates in aqueous solutions to release Cu²⁺ ions. These copper ions are then absorbed primarily in the small intestine and transported throughout the body, largely bound to proteins such as ceruloplasmin. Once absorbed, copper acts as a crucial cofactor for a wide array of enzymes involved in vital biological processes. These include redox reactions, iron metabolism, the formation of connective tissues, and the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Copper also plays a key role in mitochondrial electron transport, contributes to antioxidant defense through enzymes like superoxide dismutase, and is essential for collagen cross-linking, which is vital for tissue integrity.

Side effects

Copper supplementation, including with cupric chloride, is generally safe when administered within recommended doses. However, there is a significant risk of toxicity if overdosed. Common side effects are rare but may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea or stomach upset. More severe effects of excess copper can lead to liver damage, neurological symptoms, and in individuals with Wilson’s disease, even an exacerbation of their condition. A notable concern with cupric chloride formulations, particularly in parenteral nutrition, is the potential for trace aluminum contamination, which poses a risk of aluminum toxicity, especially in patients with impaired kidney function. Cupric chloride can interact with other substances; for instance, chelating agents and zinc supplements can reduce copper absorption. It is strictly contraindicated in individuals diagnosed with Wilson’s disease or other copper overload disorders. Special caution and careful monitoring are also advised for premature infants and patients with renal impairment due to their increased susceptibility to copper or aluminum toxicity.

Dosage

Typical intravenous copper dosing, which is relevant for cupric chloride in clinical settings, generally ranges from 0.5 mg to 1.5 mg per day for adults. It's important to note that a standardized oral dosage specifically for cupric chloride alone is not well-established in current literature, as its primary use is often in parenteral nutrition. The absorption of copper can be significantly influenced by various dietary factors and the presence of other minerals, such as zinc, which can compete for absorption. When administered parenterally, meticulous monitoring of both copper and aluminum levels in the patient's blood is crucial to prevent the accumulation of toxic levels. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on the patient's copper status, clinical condition, and the presence of any underlying health issues that might affect copper metabolism or excretion.

FAQs

Is cupric chloride safe for supplementation?

Yes, cupric chloride is generally safe when dosed appropriately and monitored, especially in clinical settings. However, caution is essential to avoid toxicity, particularly in vulnerable populations or with excessive intake.

Does it improve cholesterol or lipid profiles?

Current meta-analyses on copper supplementation, including studies relevant to cupric chloride, show no significant lipid-lowering effect on total cholesterol, LDL-C, or HDL-C in humans.

How quickly do benefits appear?

For copper deficiency, correction effects can typically appear within weeks. In animal studies, growth-related benefits from copper supplementation have been observed within the early weeks post-supplementation.

Can it cause toxicity?

Yes, copper from cupric chloride can cause toxicity, especially if overdosed or in individuals with impaired copper metabolism (like Wilson's disease) or kidney function, due to potential accumulation and aluminum contamination.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33030656/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of copper supplementation on blood lipid levels in humans. It found no significant impact on total cholesterol, LDL-C, or HDL-C across 5 randomized controlled trials involving 176 participants, suggesting copper supplementation does not improve lipid profiles.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10892854/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on the effects of dietary copper supplementation in weaned piglets. It concluded that copper supplementation significantly improved weight gain and feed conversion ratio in piglets, highlighting copper's role in animal growth and metabolism.
https://www.goodrx.com/cupric-chloride/what-is – This source provides a clinical overview of cupric chloride, noting its use in parenteral nutrition and the associated risks, such as aluminum toxicity. It also mentions typical intravenous dosing ranges, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring in clinical applications.