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

Zinc sulfate is used to treat and to prevent zinc deficiency and it also helps in the immune system function.

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

Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed.

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.

Usual Adult Dose for Dietary Supplement:

Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)-expressed as elemental zinc:
19 years and older:
Male: 11 mg (Upper intake limit: 34 mg)
Female: 9 mg (Upper intake limit: 34 mg)
Pregnancy: 11 mg (Upper intake limit: 40 mg)
Lactation: 12 mg (Upper intake limit: 40 mg)

Zinc sulfate injection: IV:
Metabolically stable adults receiving TPN: 2.5 to 4 mg zinc/day
Acute catabolic states on TPN: Additional 2 mg zinc per day is recommended.
Stable adult with fluid loss from the small bowel: Additional 12.2 mg zinc/liter of small bowel fluid lost, or an additional 17.1 mg zinc/kg of stool or ileostomy output is recommended.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Dietary Supplement:

Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)-expressed as elemental zinc:
0 to 6 months:
Male: 2 mg (Upper intake limit: 4 mg)
Female: 2 mg (Upper intake limit: 4 mg)
7 to 12 months:
Male: 3 mg (Upper intake limit: 5 mg)
Female: 3 mg (Upper intake limit: 5 mg)

1 to 3 years:
Male: 3 mg (Upper intake limit: 7 mg)
Female: 3 mg (Upper intake limit: 7 mg)

4 to 8 years:
Male: 5 mg (Upper intake limit: 12 mg)
Female: 5 mg (Upper intake limit: 12 mg)

9 to 13 years:
Male: 8 mg (Upper intake limit: 23 mg)
Female: 8 mg (Upper intake limit: 23 mg)

14 to 18 years:
Male: 11 mg (Upper intake limit: 34 mg)
Female: 9 mg (Upper intake limit: 34 mg)
Pregnancy: 12 mg (Upper intake limit: 40 mg)
Lactation: 13 mg (Upper intake limit: 40 mg)

Zinc sulfate injection: IV:
Full term infants and children up to 5 years of age: 100 mcg zinc/kg/day is recommended.
Premature infants (birth weight less than 1500 g) up to 3 kg in body weight: 300 mcg zinc/kg/day is recommended.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using zinc sulfate if you have health problems or use other medications, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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.

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.

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.

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 of zinc sulfate 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.

Other drugs may affect zinc sulfate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.