Indications
Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate is a form of zinc, a mineral the body needs for growth, wound healing, immunity (the body’s defence against infection), taste and smell. It is used to prevent and treat zinc deficiency, and together with oral rehydration salts (ORS) it is used to shorten and lessen diarrhoea in children. It is often combined with Ferrous Sulphate and Folic Acid in products that treat iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy and in growing children.
How It Works
Zinc is part of many enzymes (proteins that speed up chemical reactions in the body). Replacing low zinc helps the gut lining repair itself, supports normal immune cells and allows normal growth and skin repair. In diarrhoea it helps the intestine absorb water and salts better.
Dosage and Administration
Doses are usually written as elemental zinc (the actual amount of zinc in the salt).
- Diarrhoea in children under 6 months: 10 mg elemental zinc once daily for 10 to 14 days.
- Diarrhoea in children 6 months and older: 20 mg elemental zinc once daily for 10 to 14 days.
- Zinc deficiency in adults: commonly 25 to 50 mg elemental zinc daily, as prescribed.
- Combination iron and zinc products: as directed on the label or by your doctor.
Take with water, preferably 1 hour before or 2 hours after food. If it upsets the stomach, it may be taken with a light meal.
Interactions
Zinc can reduce the absorption of Tetracycline, Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin and Penicillamine; take these at least 2 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after zinc. Iron, Calcium supplements and antacids can lower zinc absorption when taken together. Long-term high-dose zinc can lower copper levels in the body.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to zinc salts or any ingredient in the product. Avoid high doses in people with copper deficiency unless a doctor advises it.
Side Effects
- Nausea, stomach upset or stomach pain
- Vomiting, especially if taken on an empty stomach
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- With long-term high doses: low copper, which can cause anaemia and low white cell counts
Get urgent medical help if you notice severe or persistent vomiting, signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing, or black or bloody stools.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Zinc at normal supplement doses is considered safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding and is often given with iron in pregnancy. Do not take more than your doctor recommends.
Precautions and Warnings
Use only for the recommended period. Long-term use above about 40 mg elemental zinc a day in adults should be supervised by a doctor. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease. Keep iron and zinc combinations away from children, as accidental iron overdose in children is dangerous.
Overdose
Too much zinc can cause severe nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhoea and dizziness. Seek medical help straight away, especially if a child has swallowed a product that also contains iron.
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.