Zinc

Products

Zinc is found in numerous pharmaceutical products. This article refers to peroral administration, for example, in the form of tablets, chewable tablets, lozenges, and effervescent tablets. Zinc should not be confused with tin.

Structure and properties

Zinc (Zn) is a chemical element with an atomic number of 20 that exists as a brittle, blue-silver metal. It has two valence electrons, which it can donate as a reducing agent. Zinc is found in pharmaceuticals in the form of various organic and inorganic salts, such as zinc gluconate, zinc orotate, zinc sulfate and zinc citrate. These differ in water solubility, bioavailability, and zinc content, among other factors.

Effects

Zinc (ATC A12CB) is an essential trace element found as an inorganic component in numerous enzymes and non-enzymatic proteins. It plays a role in normal cell growth (e.g., skin, hair, nails, mucosa), insulin metabolism, wound healing, fertility, and immune response.

Indications

Zinc is administered for deficiencies, increased requirements, and lack of intake. It is also taken to prevent and treat colds. According to a Cochrane review, it is said to be useful for treating the common cold (Singh, Das, 2013). Other uses (selection):

  • Parenteral nutrition
  • Dietary supplements for hair and nails
  • Multivitamin preparations, tonics
  • Fertility drugs
  • Promote wound healing, skin diseases such as acne.
  • Diarrheal diseases
  • Wilson’s disease

Dosage

According to the professional information. The drugs are taken between one to three times a day, depending on the indication. The intake should usually be fasting, that is, one hour before or two hours after a meal. This is because other medications, as well as foods and stimulants such as coffee, black tea or cereals, can interfere with absorption.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity
  • Severe renal insufficiency
  • Acute renal failure

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

Some drugs may reduce the absorption and thus the bioavailability of zinc supplements (and vice versa):

  • Iron, copper, calcium
  • Chelating agents such as penicillamine, DMPS, DMSA and EDTA.

Zinc reduces the uptake of quinolones and tetracyclines, and thus can reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics.

Adverse effects

Possible adverse effects include digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach burning, and diarrhea. Skin reactions have been reported. Prolonged use of zinc supplements requires monitoring of copper levels because copper deficiency may develop. Zinc should not be overdosed because symptoms of poisoning may occur.