Zinc 50mg Tablets
It is used to help growth and good health.
Drug Class
Mineral Supplement; Trace Element
Pharmacologic Class
Essential Trace Element
Pregnancy Category
Not assigned (Dietary Supplement); generally considered Category C for high doses, B for recommended daily allowance.
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Zinc is an essential mineral that your body needs for many important functions, including supporting your immune system, helping wounds heal, and maintaining your sense of taste and smell. Zinc gluconate is a common form of zinc supplement.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It's recommended to take this medication with a meal to enhance its effectiveness.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry location, avoiding the bathroom. Protect it from heat sources. Keep all medications in a secure place, out of the reach of children and pets. When disposing of unused or expired medication, do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist for guidance on the proper disposal method. Many communities have drug take-back programs, which your pharmacist can help you locate.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication on a regular schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses. If you take this medication as needed, follow your doctor's instructions and do not take it more frequently than recommended.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It's recommended to take this medication with a meal to enhance its effectiveness.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry location, avoiding the bathroom. Protect it from heat sources. Keep all medications in a secure place, out of the reach of children and pets. When disposing of unused or expired medication, do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist for guidance on the proper disposal method. Many communities have drug take-back programs, which your pharmacist can help you locate.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication on a regular schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses. If you take this medication as needed, follow your doctor's instructions and do not take it more frequently than recommended.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take zinc supplements with food to minimize stomach upset, especially if you experience nausea or abdominal pain.
- Avoid taking zinc supplements at the same time as iron or calcium supplements, or certain antibiotics (like ciprofloxacin or doxycycline). Separate doses by at least 2-6 hours.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose, as excessive zinc intake can lead to side effects and copper deficiency.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in zinc-containing foods (e.g., red meat, poultry, seafood, nuts, legumes, dairy).
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Zinc Sulfate 220mg Capsules
- Zinc Trace 1mg/ml Inj, 10ml
- Zinc Oxide 20% Ointment 56.7gm
- Zinc Oxide 20% Ointment 28.4gm
- Zinc Sulfate 5mg/ml Inj, 5ml
- Zinc 50mg Tablets
- Zinc Sulfate 220mg Tablets
- Zinc Oxide 20% Ointment 30gm
- Zinc Oxide 20% Ointment 425gm
- Zinc Oxide Ointment 454gm
- Zinc Oxide 20% Ointment 60gm
- Zinc Sulfate 10mg/10ml Inj, 10ml
- Zinc Sulfate 220mg Capsules
- Zinc Sulfate 5mg/ml Inj, 5ml
- Zinc Sulfate 10mg/10ml Inj, 10ml
- Zinc Chloride 10mg/10ml Inj, 10ml
- Zinc Sulfate 3mg/ml Inj, 10ml
- Zinc Sulfate 3mg/ml Inj, 10ml
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
50 mg elemental zinc once daily (for deficiency or specific conditions, short-term)
Dose Range:
15 - 50 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
commonCold:
75-100 mg elemental zinc/day (lozenges) for 5-7 days, starting within 24 hours of symptom onset
zincDeficiency:
25-50 mg elemental zinc/day, adjusted based on serum zinc levels and clinical response
macularDegeneration:
80 mg elemental zinc/day (as part of AREDS/AREDS2 formulation)
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (consult pediatrician for specific dosing)
Infant:
Not established (consult pediatrician for specific dosing)
Child:
10-25 mg elemental zinc/day (for deficiency or specific conditions, consult pediatrician)
Adolescent:
15-30 mg elemental zinc/day (for deficiency or specific conditions, consult pediatrician)
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed
Severe:
Use with caution; monitor zinc levels. High doses may accumulate.
Dialysis:
Use with caution; monitor zinc levels. May require supplementation or restriction based on individual status.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed
Severe:
No specific adjustment needed, but underlying liver disease may affect zinc metabolism.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Zinc is an essential trace element involved in numerous cellular functions. It acts as a cofactor for over 300 enzymes, playing critical roles in protein and DNA synthesis, cell division, immune function, wound healing, and sensory functions (taste and smell). It also has antioxidant properties and is involved in maintaining cell membrane integrity.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
20-40% (highly variable, influenced by food and other dietary components)
Tmax:
1-3 hours
FoodEffect:
Food, especially phytates (found in whole grains, legumes), fiber, and calcium, can decrease zinc absorption. Taking with protein-rich meals may enhance absorption.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not available (widely distributed throughout the body, with highest concentrations in muscle, bone, skin, and hair)
ProteinBinding:
Approximately 60-70% bound to albumin, 30-40% to alpha-2 macroglobulin and other proteins
CnssPenetration:
Limited (maintains physiological levels, but not a primary target for CNS action)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not available (complex kinetics, with different pools having varying turnover rates)
Clearance:
Not available
ExcretionRoute:
Primarily fecal (via bile and pancreatic secretions); small amounts excreted renally.
Unchanged:
Not applicable (excreted as zinc)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Days to weeks for clinical effects (e.g., immune modulation, wound healing), depending on deficiency severity.
PeakEffect:
Not applicable in the same way as a drug; sustained intake is required for physiological effects.
DurationOfAction:
Effects persist as long as adequate zinc levels are maintained through supplementation or diet.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones. If you have side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice.
Reporting Side Effects
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, discuss them with your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch. Your doctor can provide medical advice about side effects.
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones. If you have side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice.
Reporting Side Effects
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, discuss them with your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch. Your doctor can provide medical advice about side effects.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain (may indicate acute overdose).
- Fatigue, weakness, pale skin (signs of anemia, potentially due to copper deficiency).
- Frequent infections (due to neutropenia from copper deficiency).
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in limbs (neurological symptoms of copper deficiency).
- Metallic taste in mouth (with high doses).
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor and pharmacist identify potential interactions between this medication and other substances.
* Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your current medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor and pharmacist identify potential interactions between this medication and other substances.
* Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your current medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. This drug can interfere with the absorption of other oral medications, which may require you to take them at a different time. Be sure to discuss this with your doctor to determine the best schedule for your medications.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, it is crucial to consult with your doctor. You and your doctor will need to weigh the benefits and risks of taking this medication to ensure the best possible outcome for both you and your baby.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, it is crucial to consult with your doctor. You and your doctor will need to weigh the benefits and risks of taking this medication to ensure the best possible outcome for both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Acute: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, metallic taste, headache, dizziness, lethargy.
- Chronic (high doses over time): Copper deficiency (anemia, neutropenia, neurological problems), impaired immune function, reduced HDL cholesterol.
What to Do:
Discontinue zinc supplementation immediately. For acute overdose, seek emergency medical attention. For chronic toxicity, medical evaluation is needed to assess zinc and copper levels and manage symptoms. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control Center).
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
- Quinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin): Zinc can chelate these antibiotics, significantly reducing their absorption. Separate administration by at least 2-6 hours.
- Tetracycline antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline): Similar to quinolones, zinc can chelate tetracyclines, reducing absorption. Separate administration by at least 2-6 hours.
Moderate Interactions
- Copper: High-dose, long-term zinc supplementation (typically >50 mg elemental zinc/day) can induce copper deficiency by increasing metallothionein synthesis in enterocytes, which binds copper and prevents its absorption. Copper supplementation may be required.
- Iron: High doses of iron supplements can interfere with zinc absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
- Penicillamine: Zinc can reduce the absorption and effectiveness of penicillamine (used for Wilson's disease, rheumatoid arthritis). Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
- Diuretics (thiazide and loop): May increase urinary excretion of zinc, potentially leading to deficiency with long-term use.
- Calcium: High doses of calcium supplements may interfere with zinc absorption.
Minor Interactions
- Fiber and Phytates: Found in whole grains, legumes, and nuts, can bind zinc and reduce its absorption. Take zinc supplements between meals or away from high-fiber foods.
- Coffee/Tea: Tannins may slightly reduce absorption.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Serum Zinc Levels
Rationale: To assess baseline zinc status, especially if deficiency is suspected or high-dose supplementation is planned.
Timing: Before initiating high-dose or long-term supplementation.
Serum Copper Levels
Rationale: To establish baseline and monitor for potential copper deficiency, particularly if high-dose zinc (>50 mg elemental/day) is used.
Timing: Before initiating high-dose or long-term supplementation.
Routine Monitoring
Serum Zinc Levels
Frequency: Every 3-6 months for long-term high-dose therapy, or as clinically indicated.
Target: 70-120 mcg/dL (adults)
Action Threshold: If levels are consistently high (>150 mcg/dL) or low (<60 mcg/dL) despite supplementation, adjust dose or investigate cause.
Serum Copper Levels
Frequency: Every 3-6 months for long-term high-dose zinc therapy.
Target: 70-140 mcg/dL (adults)
Action Threshold: If levels fall below range, consider reducing zinc dose or initiating copper supplementation.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Frequency: Annually or as clinically indicated for long-term high-dose therapy.
Target: Normal ranges
Action Threshold: Monitor for signs of anemia (e.g., microcytic anemia), which can be a symptom of copper deficiency.
Symptom Monitoring
- Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain) - common with high doses, especially on an empty stomach.
- Metallic taste in mouth.
- Symptoms of copper deficiency: anemia (fatigue, pallor), neutropenia (increased infections), neurological symptoms (numbness, tingling, weakness, gait disturbances).
- Headache, dizziness.
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Zinc is an essential nutrient during pregnancy for fetal development and maternal health. However, excessive intake can be harmful. Adhere to recommended daily allowances (RDA) unless a deficiency is diagnosed by a healthcare provider. High doses (e.g., 50mg elemental zinc) should only be used under medical supervision for diagnosed deficiency.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Essential for early organogenesis; deficiency can impair development. Excess intake should be avoided.
Second Trimester:
Continued need for fetal growth and development.
Third Trimester:
Important for rapid fetal growth and preparation for birth.
Lactation
Zinc is essential for breast milk production and infant growth. Adequate maternal intake is important. High doses should be avoided as excess zinc can be transferred to breast milk, potentially harming the infant. Adhere to RDA unless deficiency is diagnosed.
Infant Risk:
Low risk with recommended doses; high risk of adverse effects (e.g., copper deficiency) with excessive maternal intake.
Pediatric Use
Zinc is crucial for growth, development, and immune function in children. Dosing must be carefully adjusted by age and weight, and should be supervised by a pediatrician, especially for doses exceeding the RDA. High doses can be toxic and lead to copper deficiency.
Geriatric Use
Older adults may be at increased risk of zinc deficiency due to reduced dietary intake, malabsorption, or chronic diseases. Supplementation may be beneficial, but caution is advised with high doses due to potential interactions with medications and risk of copper deficiency.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Zinc gluconate typically contains about 14.3% elemental zinc. A 50mg elemental zinc tablet would contain approximately 350mg of zinc gluconate.
- High-dose zinc supplementation (e.g., 50 mg elemental zinc/day or more) should generally be reserved for diagnosed deficiencies or specific medical conditions and should be monitored by a healthcare professional.
- Long-term use of high-dose zinc (over several months) necessitates monitoring of copper levels to prevent induced copper deficiency.
- Taking zinc with food can significantly reduce gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and stomach upset.
- Zinc lozenges for the common cold are most effective when started within 24 hours of symptom onset and dissolved slowly in the mouth, not swallowed whole.
Alternative Therapies
- Dietary sources of zinc (e.g., red meat, poultry, seafood, nuts, seeds, legumes, dairy)
- Multivitamin/mineral supplements containing zinc (for general nutritional support)
- Other immune-supporting supplements (e.g., Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Elderberry - note: these are not direct alternatives for zinc deficiency but for general immune health)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$5 - $25 per 100 tablets (50mg elemental zinc)
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Not typically covered by insurance as it is an over-the-counter dietary supplement.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide detailed information about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.