Zinc Uses, Side Effects & Warnings - Drugs.com

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# Zinc

Generic name: zinc sulfate [ ZINK-SUL-fate ]
Brand names: Orazinc 110, Orazinc 220, Zinc, Zinc-220

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 7, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

## What is Zinc?

Zinc is a naturally occurring mineral. Zinc is important for growth and for the development and health of body tissues.

Zinc is used to treat and to prevent zinc deficiency.

Zinc may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

## Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

## Before taking this medicine

Before using Zinc, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. You may not be able to use this medicine if you have certain medical conditions.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Zinc will harm an unborn baby. Do not use Zinc without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether zinc sulfate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

## How should I take Zinc?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Take Zinc with a full glass of water.

Take Zinc with food if it upsets your stomach.

Your healthcare provider may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best result. The recommended dietary allowance of zinc sulfate changes with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You may also consult the Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health, or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Nutrient Database (formerly "Recommended Daily Allowances") listings for more information.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Detailed Zinc dosage information

## Related/similar drugs

ferrous sulfate, folic acid, ergocalciferol, acetylcysteine, ascorbic acid, biotin, Vitamin C

## What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

## What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include nausea, severe vomiting, dehydration, and restlessness.

## What should I avoid while taking Zinc?

Avoid taking this medication with foods that are high in calcium or phosphorus, which can make it harder for your body to absorb Zinc. Foods high in calcium or phosphorus include milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, dried beans or peas, lentils, nuts, peanut butter, beer, cola soft drinks, and hot cocoa.

## Zinc side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects may include:

- nausea; or

- upset stomach.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Zinc side effects (more detail)

## What other drugs will affect Zinc?

Other drugs may interact with zinc sulfate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Zinc drug interactions (more detail)

## Where can I get more information?

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

## Popular FAQ

Does Zinc protect you from Covid-19 or boost your immune system?

Few trials have been conducted that examine the role zinc supplementation or low zinc levels play in Covid-19. Spanish doctors found that people with low zinc levels admitted to hospital with Covid-19 tended to fare worse than those with healthier levels and numerous studies have reported benefits for zinc in people with the common cold. Zinc is an essential mineral that we have to obtain from diet or supplements. It supports normal growth and development during childhood, adolescence, and pregnancy; is responsible for the activity of more than 300 different enzymes in our body; is vital for our immune system functioning; and is important for wound healing.

Continue reading

### More FAQ

- What are antioxidants and should you take supplements?

## More about Zinc (zinc sulfate)

- Check interactions
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- En español

### Patient resources

#### Other brands

Zinc-220, Orazinc

### Professional resources

- Advanced Reading

### Related treatment guides

- Dietary Supplementation
- Vitamin/Mineral Supplementation and Deficiency

## Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 6.03.