Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Zinc Sulfate?
Zinc is a naturally-occurring mineral that your body needs for proper growth and development.
It’s sometimes taken to treat a zinc deficiency or to promote wellness.
Zinc is also used with or without vitamin C to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms associated with the common cold.
There’s no evidence that the average person needs to take extra zinc to maintain or improve their health.
Zinc is typically sold as an over-the-counter (OTC) product.
Warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Zinc Sulfate (Zinc)?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine if you have health problems or use other medications, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How should I use Zinc Sulfate
Use Zinc Sulfate (Zinc) 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.
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.
The recommended daily dose of zinc sulfate changes with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You may also consult the Office of Dietary Supplements of the NIH, or the USDA Nutrient Database of recommended daily allowances for more information.
Take zinc sulfate with a full glass of water.
Take zinc sulfate with food if it upsets your stomach.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
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.
Zinc Sulfate side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Common 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.
What other drugs will affect Zinc Sulfate?
Avoid taking this medication with foods that are high in calcium or phosphorus, which can make it harder for your body to absorb zinc sulfate. Foods high in calcium or phosphorus include milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, beans or peas, lentils, nuts, peanut butter, beer, cola soft drinks, and hot cocoa.
What to Expect
Zinc supplements are usually well-tolerated.
It’s best to get minerals like zinc from the foods you eat. A well-balanced diet should provide most healthy people with adequate amounts of zinc.
Some foods that are high in zinc include fish, beef, beans, wild rice, and peanuts.
Additional Dosage Information
Your dosage of zinc will depend on the type you take, your age, and your overall health.
Zinc can interact with certain antibiotics and rheumatologic medicines, so it's best to discuss with your doctor if you're taking or plan to use these medications while taking zinc supplementation.
Secondary Uses
Though research on its effectiveness is inconclusive, people take zinc for a host of other health issues, including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), diarrhea, depression, acne, wound healing, age-related macular degeneration, and many other conditions.
While zinc may show some benefit for helping to shorten the duration of the common cold, there’s currently no evidence to support its use in patients with COVID-19.