Indications
Zinc Orotate is a zinc supplement. It is used to prevent and treat zinc deficiency, which may show as poor appetite, slow wound healing, frequent infections, hair loss, skin problems or poor growth in children. It may also be used as part of general nutritional support when the diet is low in zinc or when the body needs more, for example during recovery from illness.
How It Works
Zinc is an essential mineral, meaning the body needs it but cannot make it. It helps hundreds of enzymes (proteins that speed up chemical reactions in the body) to work, and is important for the immune system, wound healing, skin, taste and smell, and normal growth. In Zinc Orotate, zinc is bound to orotic acid, a natural compound, which helps carry the zinc into the body.
Dosage and Administration
Take by mouth as directed on the label or by your doctor. Adult products usually provide around 10 to 25 mg of elemental zinc a day. Adults should not take more than 40 mg of elemental zinc a day from all sources unless a doctor advises it. Taking it with or after food reduces stomach upset. Children should take it only in a dose advised by a doctor.
Interactions
- Zinc can reduce the absorption of some antibiotics, such as Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Doxycycline and Tetracycline. Take the antibiotic at least 2 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after zinc.
- Iron and Calcium supplements may reduce zinc absorption; take them at different times.
- Penicillamine and some diuretics (water tablets) may change zinc levels.
- Long term high dose zinc can lower copper levels.
Contraindications
Do not take if you are allergic to any ingredient. Avoid unless advised by a doctor if you have high zinc levels or a copper deficiency.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated at normal doses. Possible side effects include nausea, stomach upset, a metallic taste and, less often, vomiting or diarrhoea, mostly when taken on an empty stomach. Long term use of high doses can cause copper deficiency, leading to anaemia or numbness.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe vomiting, severe stomach pain, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or throat or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Zinc is needed in pregnancy and breastfeeding, and normal supplement doses are considered safe. Do not exceed the recommended amount, and ask your doctor before starting, especially if you already take a prenatal vitamin that contains zinc.
Precautions and Warnings
- Check the labels of other vitamins you take so that the total zinc is not too high.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease.
- Do not use high doses for long periods without medical advice.
Overdose
Too much zinc may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhoea and dizziness. If a large amount has been taken, especially by a child, contact a doctor or poison centre straight away.
Therapeutic Class
Mineral supplement (zinc preparation).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.