Overview
Trace mineral cofactor for xanthine oxidase and sulfite oxidase.
- Legumes
- Whole grains
- Nuts
- Sodium molybdate
- Molybdenum glycinate
Forms & variants of Molybdenum
Different chemical forms of Molybdenum behave differently. Browse each form's mechanism, bioavailability, and best-use context.
Mechanism of action
Cofactor (Moco) for xanthine oxidase, aldehyde oxidase, and sulfite oxidase.
- · Sulfur metabolism
- · Purine catabolism
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
Molybdenum supports hepatocyte antioxidant defenses (glutathione, Nrf2) and phase-I/II detoxification.
Evidence-based benefits
Prevents sulfite-induced reactions in deficiency
Moderate evidencePotential side effects
- · Molybdenum is generally well-tolerated at evidence-based doses
- · Mild GI discomfort (nausea, loose stools, or bloating) possible at higher intakes
- · Headache or transient fatigue reported by a small fraction of users
- · Allergic or hypersensitivity reaction (rash, itching, swelling)
- · Sleep disturbance if taken late in the day
- · Discontinue and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or include difficulty breathing
Drug interactions
Supplement interactions
- Milk thistle (silymarin)Complementary hepatoprotective antioxidant pathways.
- NACRestores hepatic glutathione.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
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Third-party testedIndependently verified Molybdenum — look for USP, NSF, or Informed Sport seals on the label for purity and dose accuracy.Molybdenum third party tested NSF
CapsulesPre-measured Molybdenum capsules — easiest for travel and consistent daily dosing without scoops or scales.Molybdenum capsules
PowderBulk unflavored Molybdenum powder — best cost-per-gram and flexible dosing for stacking or mixing into drinks.Molybdenum powder unflavored
Best sellersMost-purchased Molybdenum products on Amazon — a quick way to see what's reviewed widely before you commit.Molybdenum best sellerScientific evidence8Show studiesHide studies
Molybdenum: pharmacology, clinical evidence, and safety — narrative review
Examine.com Research Team
Curated narrative review of human and preclinical evidence for Molybdenum, including mechanism, typical dosing, and safety considerations.
Best-supported outcome: Prevents sulfite-induced reactions in deficiency (evidence: moderate). Additional outcomes and limitations summarized in the full profile.
PubMed: Molybdenum — Prevents sulfite-induced reactions in deficiency
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PubMed: Molybdenum — randomized controlled trial
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PubMed: Molybdenum — meta-analysis
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PubMed: Molybdenum — pharmacokinetics
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PubMed: Molybdenum — safety adverse events
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PubMed: Molybdenum — dose response
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Google Scholar: Molybdenum — clinical evidence
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Cross-database citation index for Molybdenum as it relates to "clinical evidence".
Includes preprints, theses, and journal articles. Useful for tracking citation counts and follow-on work.