Mineral
Copper (as Cupric Oxide)
Also known as: Copper, Cupric Oxide, Cu
Copper is an essential trace mineral required for iron metabolism, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant enzyme function. It plays critical roles in energy production and immune function.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Copper (as Cupric Oxide) product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thorne Copper Bisglycinate | 96 A | $0.32 |
| 2 | Thorne Thyroid Health Complex | 90 A | $0.33 |
| 3 | Pure Encapsulations EyeProtect Basics without zinc | 90 A | $1.00 |
| 4 | Jarrow Formulas Zinc Balance (2-Pack) | 90 A | $0.14 |
| 5 | Complement ForHer Hormone Balance and Longevity Multivitamin for Women | 89 A | $0.67 |
| 6 | Pure Encapsulations EyeProtect Basics | 89 A | $1.05 |
| 7 | NOW Foods Liquid Chlorophyll - Mint | 89 A | $0.21 |
| 8 | Thorne Advanced Nutrients | 88 A | $2.40 |
| 9 | Thorne Basic Nutrients 2/Day | 88 A | $0.60 |
| 10 | Thorne Basic Prenatal | 88 A | $1.23 |
| 11 | Thorne Men's Multi 50+ | 88 A | $1.87 |
| 12 | Pure Encapsulations Copper (citrate) | 88 A | $0.21 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Copper (as Cupric Oxide) should I take?
The typical range is 1.5–3 mg daily. Safe for long-term supplementation at recommended levels
When should I take Copper (as Cupric Oxide)?
With meals. Recommended to reduce GI upset and enhance absorption.
Which form of Copper (as Cupric Oxide) is best?
Cupric oxide. Other forms in the catalog: Copper gluconate, Copper sulfate.
Is Copper (as Cupric Oxide) safe?
Commonly reported: Nausea and GI upset at high doses, Metallic taste, Headache.
Which Copper (as Cupric Oxide) supplement scores highest?
Thorne Copper Bisglycinate, at 96/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Daily target & upper limit
0.9 mg / day · UL 10 mgCopper (as Cupric Oxide) has an established daily reference intake. See best forms, label synonyms, upper-limit warnings, and top-scoring supplements:
Copper (as Cupric Oxide) dosage reference →Primary uses
- Cofactor for cytochrome c oxidase and other metalloenzymes
- Iron metabolism and hemoglobin formation
- Connective tissue synthesis
- Antioxidant defense via superoxide dismutase
How it works
- Required cofactor for multiple oxidative enzymes
- Facilitates electron transfer in the electron transport chain
- Essential for cross-linking collagen and elastin
Dosage
- Typical range
- 1.5–3 mg daily
- Timing
- With meals
- With food
- Recommended to reduce GI upset and enhance absorption
- Duration
- Safe for long-term supplementation at recommended levels
- Special populations
- Avoid excessive intake in those with Wilson's disease or genetic copper metabolism disorders
Forms
- Cupric oxide· 70/100
- Copper gluconate· 70/100
- Copper sulfate· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Nausea and GI upset at high doses
- Metallic taste
- Headache
Contraindications
- Wilson's disease
- Cholestasis or liver disease affecting copper excretion
- Concurrent use of penicillamine without medical supervision
Products containing Copper (as Cupric Oxide)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Copper (as Cupric Oxide) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Copper is an established essential mineral with well-characterized biochemical roles. Deficiency causes documented clinical symptoms; adequacy is supported by extensive metabolic research.
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
Cited research for Copper (as Cupric Oxide)
Clinical studies referenced across Formulate guides that mention copper (as cupric oxide). Each links to the full study page with PubMed source + the guides that cite it.
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.