Drug Detail:Zinc gluconate (Zinc gluconate [ zink-glue-koe-nate ])
Generic Name: Zinc Gluconate Lozenges [ zink-GLOO-koe-nate ]
Drug Class: Minerals and electrolytes
Uses of Zinc Gluconate Lozenges:
- It is used to help the immune system.
- It is used to ease cold and flu signs.
What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Zinc Gluconate Lozenges?
- If you are allergic to this medicine (zinc gluconate lozenges); any part of this medicine (zinc gluconate lozenges); or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
This medicine may interact with other drugs or health problems.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take this medicine (zinc gluconate lozenges) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.
What are some things I need to know or do while I take Zinc Gluconate Lozenges?
- Tell all of your health care providers that you take this medicine (zinc gluconate lozenges). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
- This medicine may prevent other drugs taken by mouth from getting into the body. If you take other drugs by mouth, you may need to take them at some other time than this medicine (zinc gluconate lozenges). Talk with your doctor.
- If you have high blood sugar (diabetes), talk with the doctor. Some of these products have sugar.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.
Related/similar drugs
acetylcysteine, biotin, ascorbic acid, Vitamin C, niacin, multivitaminHow is this medicine (Zinc Gluconate Lozenges) best taken?
Use this medicine (zinc gluconate lozenges) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.
- Suck oral lozenge. Do not chew, break, or crush it. Do not swallow it whole.
- Do not take on an empty stomach.
- Do not eat or drink for at least 15 minutes after using this medicine (zinc gluconate lozenges).
What do I do if I miss a dose?
- If you take this medicine (zinc gluconate lozenges) on a regular basis, take a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
- If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
- Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
- Many times this medicine (zinc gluconate lozenges) is taken on an as needed basis. Do not take more often than told by the doctor.
What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?
WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, like 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.
What are some other side effects of Zinc Gluconate Lozenges?
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.
These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
If OVERDOSE is suspected:
If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.
How do I store and/or throw out Zinc Gluconate Lozenges?
- Store at room temperature.
- Protect from heat.
- Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
- Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
- Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
- If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
- Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs.
- Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about this medicine (zinc gluconate lozenges), please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
- If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the best zinc-rich foods to eat?