Zinc sulfate is a supplement used to treat or prevent zinc deficiency that may occur in individuals on an inadequate diet, in malabsorption syndromes (inability of your intestines to absorb certain nutrients from the food you eat), conditions with increased tissue loss (e.g. trauma, burns), and during parenteral feeding.
This medicine is a source of zinc, which is an important trace element and involved in many body enzyme functions.
Take Zinc sulfate exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether you should take this medicine with or without food. Different brands of this medicine may be taken differently. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Zinc sulfate is available as a capsule, effervescent tablet, and oral syrup.
If you are taking the capsule, swallow it whole with a glass of water.
If you are taking the effervescent tablet, dissolve the tablet in a glass of water and drink the solution.
If you are giving the oral syrup to a child, shake the bottle well before giving the medicine to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure the prescribed dose.
Zinc sulfate must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have a copper deficiency as Zinc sulfate may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Zinc sulfate to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Zinc sulfate may cause any of the following side effects: nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhoea, indigestion, irritability, a feeling of weariness, and headache.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience tiredness or weakness, weak and brittle bones, memory problems, difficulty walking, sensitivity to cold, pale skin, premature grey hair, loss of vision, and frequent sickness.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- certain antibiotics e.g. tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin
- penicillamine (medicine used to treat rheumatoid arthritis [inflammation in the joints of fingers, wrist, feet, and ankles])
- trientine (medicine used to treat Wilson's disease [a rare inherited condition in which the body cannot transport or remove copper in the normal way resulting in copper build-up in the body])
- supplements or preparations containing copper, calcium or iron
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Zinc sulfate.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Avoid intake of fibre-rich foods such as bran or whole grain cereals and foods high in calcium or phosphorous.
It may be helpful to discuss with your doctor or dietitian about the diet plan that would best suit you.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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