Zinc
About
Zinc belongs to the group of medicines called mineral supplements used to treat and prevent zinc deficiency. A mineral deficiency occurs when the body does not absorb or get enough minerals from food. Minerals are necessary for the development of the body and the prevention of diseases.
Zinc contains ‘zinc’, an essential trace element involved in various body enzyme functions. Zinc helps strengthen the immune system and relieves flu and cold symptoms. It also helps in the growth and maintenance of good health.
You are advised to take Zinc for as long as your doctor has recommended it for you, depending on your medical condition. In some cases, you may experience common side effects such as regurgitation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, and indigestion. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.
Let your doctor know if you are using any other medicines or herbal products before starting Zinc. If you are allergic to any of the components in Zinc, please inform your doctor. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Zinc should be given to children only if advised by a doctor; the dose may vary depending on the child’s weight.
Uses of Zinc
Medicinal Benefits
Zinc belongs to the group of medicines called mineral supplements used to treat and prevent zinc deficiency. Zinc is an essential trace element involved in various body enzyme functions. Zinc helps strengthen the immune system and relieves flu and cold symptoms. It also helps in protein synthesis, immune system function, wound healing, DNA synthesis, growth and maintenance of health.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Zinc
- Regurgitation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach pain
- Indigestion
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Do not take Zinc if you are allergic to any of its contents or if you have a copper deficiency. Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease. Consult a doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Zinc should be given to children only if advised by a doctor; the dose may vary depending on the child’s weight. Avoid or limit consumption of alcohol as it might affect the absorption of Zinc. Tell your doctor if you are taking other medicines or herbal products before starting Zinc.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Zinc may have interaction with antibiotics (oxytetracycline, doxycycline, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, norfloxacin, ofloxacin, ethambutol), supplements (calcium, iron), heavy metal antagonist (penicillamine), antidote (trientine), antiepileptic (sodium valproate).
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionAvoid or limit consumption of alcohol as it might affect the absorption of Zinc.
Pregnancy
cautionPlease consult a doctor if you are pregnant. Your doctor will recommend only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionPlease consult a doctor if you are breastfeeding. Your doctor will decide if Zinc can be taken by breastfeeding mothers or not.
Driving
cautionZinc is unlikely to affect your ability to drive. However, drive or operate machinery only if you are alert.
Liver
consult your doctorLimited data is available. Please consult your doctor if you have a liver impairment or any concerns before taking Zinc.
Kidney
consult your doctorTalk to your doctor before taking Zinc if you have kidney impairment.
Children
cautionZinc should be given to children only if advised by a doctor; the dose may vary depending on the child’s weight.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Follow a well-balanced diet.
- Include foods such as beans, whole grains, nuts, and dairy products.
- Exercising regularly helps in improving overall health.
- Rest well, and get plenty of sleep.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Meditation and yoga can help lower stress.
- Avoid processed and fried food.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Mineral deficiencies: A mineral deficiency occurs when the body does not absorb or get enough minerals from food. Minerals are necessary for body development and the prevention of diseases. Mineral deficiency can lead to many health problems, like a weakened immune system, weak bones, and fatigue. The human body requires different minerals for bodily functions and proper growth. Mineral deficiency could occur due to a lack of minerals in the diet, an increased need for minerals, or difficulty absorbing minerals from food. Zinc deficiency may cause loss of appetite, smell or taste, decreased immune system, and slowed growth rate.
FAQs
Zinc is an essential trace element involved in various body enzyme functions. Zinc helps strengthen the immune system and relieves flu and cold symptoms. It also helps in protein synthesis, immune system function, wound healing, DNA synthesis, growth and maintenance of health.
Consult your doctor before taking Zinc with antibiotics. It is advised to maintain a gap of 3 hours between Zinc and antibiotic medicines, as Zinc might interfere with their absorption.
Zinc is less likely to cause diarrhoea as it is helpful in fighting against diarrhoea-causing bacteria. However, if you experience diarrhoea, eat non-spicy food and drink plenty of fluids. Consult your doctor if you have severe diarrhoea or if you find blood in your stools.
Zinc might cause reduced copper levels, leading to copper deficiency. Inform your doctor if you are suffering from copper deficiency or if you are taking copper supplements.
