Molybdenum may be useful in the treatment of certain cardiovascular conditions, asthma, allergies and mercury toxicity. Because of its involvement with sulfur, it may be warranted for use in cases of asthma that are associated with sulfite sensitivity.
Molybdenum cofactor deficiency has been identified in a large number of patients. A diet low in sulfur amino acids can be therapeutic. Molybdenum cofactor deficiency results in the loss of 2 molybdenum-dependent enzymes, namely sulfate oxidase and xanthine dehydrogenase. Molybdenum also inhibits the intestinal absorption of copper and iron. It may be wise to balance molybdenum supplementation with copper supplements.
Molybdenum by IV administration stimulates sulfite metabolism but it is not as effective when taken orally and therefore oral use should be with the most effective chelates available, such as molybdenum picolinate at 1-3mg per day.
Sulfites in the urine are indicative of molybdenum need. Urine sulfite dipsticks are available from Meridian Valley Laboratory which can be found on our links page.