Ammonium Heptamolybdate

MineralMolybdenum saltBest with a meal

What is it

Ammonium heptamolybdate (also called ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate) is an inorganic compound used as a source of molybdenum, an essential trace mineral, in supplements and food fortification.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Molybdenum status

Strong Evidence

Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral with established RDA. Deficiency is rare but supplementation maintains adequate enzyme function in known low-intake situations.

How it works

After ingestion, ammonium heptamolybdate dissociates to release molybdate ions, which are absorbed in the gut and used as a cofactor for molybdoenzymes including sulfite oxidase, xanthine oxidase, and aldehyde oxidase. These enzymes are involved in sulfur amino acid metabolism, purine catabolism, and detoxification of aldehydes.

Dosage

The RDA for molybdenum is 45 mcg/day in adults, with a tolerable upper limit of 2000 mcg/day. Supplements typically provide 50-150 mcg per serving. The DSLD does not list a unique median for ammonium heptamolybdate specifically.

When and how to take it

Usually taken with food once daily as part of a multimineral or single-mineral supplement.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Ammonium heptamolybdate

Common molybdenum source in supplements and fortification.

Well absorbed

Sodium molybdate

Alternative inorganic molybdenum source.

Comparable bioavailability

Safety

Molybdenum from any form is well tolerated within recommended limits. Very high intakes (above 2000 mcg/day) have been linked to elevated uric acid and possibly increased risk of joint symptoms. Ammonium heptamolybdate at supplement doses is considered safe.

Who should be cautious

Stay within upper limits. Avoid mega-dose molybdenum in pregnancy and breastfeeding, gout, or copper deficiency. People with kidney disease should consult a clinician.

Interactions

High molybdenum intake can increase copper excretion and may lower copper status with chronic use. Otherwise no major drug interactions.

Food sources

Legumes

Amount
1/2 cup beans (~10-50 mcg)
%DV
22%

Whole grains

Amount
Small amounts
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is ammonium heptamolybdate safe?⌄

Yes, at typical supplement doses providing molybdenum within recommended limits.

Do I need a molybdenum supplement?⌄

Deficiency is rare in people eating a varied diet that includes legumes and grains. Routine supplementation is usually unnecessary.

References

Ammonium Heptamolybdate on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Ammonium Heptamolybdate (PubChem CID 25488) — PubChem link

Ammonium Heptamolybdate on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Ammonium Heptamolybdate (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.