Pep-2

Approved Uses:

• Treatment and prevention of zinc deficiency.
• Adjunct therapy in acute and persistent diarrhea in children (especially under age 5) alongside oral rehydration therapy.

Clinically Accepted Off-label Uses:

• Wilson’s disease (reduces copper absorption).
• Acrodermatitis enteropathica.
• Acne vulgaris.
• Age-related macular degeneration.
• Common cold symptom reduction and duration shortening.
• Leg and pressure ulcer healing.
• Sickle cell disease (immune support).
• Supportive use in conditions like osteoporosis, anorexia nervosa, ADHD.

রেজিস্টার্ড চিকিৎসকের নির্দেশনা অনুযায়ী ঔষধ সেবন করুন।

• Infants <6 months:
  10 mg elemental zinc once daily for 10–14 days
• Children ≥6 months to 5 years:
  20 mg elemental zinc once daily for 10–14 days
• Adults (supplementation/deficiency):
  Usually 20–40 mg elemental zinc daily, or as directed by physician

Administration Tips:

• Take 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
• May take with food to reduce GI upset.
• In cases of vomiting within 30 minutes, repeat dose.

রেজিস্টার্ড চিকিৎসকের নির্দেশনা অনুযায়ী ঔষধ সেবন করুন।

Zinc is an essential trace mineral that acts as a cofactor for over 300 enzymes, contributing to vital physiological functions including cell division, DNA synthesis, protein metabolism, wound healing, and immune defense. In diarrheal illness, it restores intestinal mucosal integrity, supports local immune responses, and has direct antimicrobial properties. It also inhibits copper absorption by inducing intestinal metallothionein, which binds copper and reduces its uptake.

• Absorption: Incompletely absorbed; typically 10–40% from the small intestine. Absorption is reduced by phytates, fiber, iron, and calcium.
• Distribution: Mainly bound to albumin and macroglobulins in plasma; stored in liver, kidneys, and muscles.
• Metabolism: Not significantly metabolized; primarily functions as a trace metal cofactor.
• Excretion: Mostly eliminated through feces (via bile); minor amounts excreted in urine and sweat.

• Pregnancy: Generally considered safe at recommended dietary intake levels. High-dose supplementation not recommended unless clinically indicated.
• Lactation: Zinc is excreted in breast milk. Normal dietary intake is considered safe; excess intake should be avoided.
• Caution: Data on high-dose use in pregnancy/lactation is limited. Avoid exceeding the tolerable upper intake level (40 mg/day).

• Primary Class: Mineral supplement
• Subclass: Essential trace element

• Hypersensitivity to zinc sulfate or any formulation component.
• Known copper deficiency.
• Use above upper intake limits in well-nourished pregnant or lactating individuals.

• May cause nausea and vomiting, especially in children within minutes of ingestion.
• Long-term high doses may lead to copper deficiency, anemia, or neutropenia.
• Risk of renal accumulation in patients with renal impairment—monitor renal function.
• Monitor for gastrointestinal irritation and ulceration in overdose situations.
• Long-term use should include periodic monitoring of copper and iron levels.

Common:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Metallic taste

Serious/Rare:

• Copper deficiency with anemia or leukopenia (from chronic high doses)
• Gastrointestinal ulceration or perforation (from overdose)
• Renal toxicity with excessive intake

• Decreased absorption when co-administered with: Tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, penicillamine, trientine, calcium or iron supplements.
• Antagonistic mineral interactions: Competes with copper and iron for absorption.
• Alcohol: Chronic use may impair zinc absorption.
• Recommendation: Administer interacting drugs and zinc 2–3 hours apart.

• Zinc sulfate is included in WHO guidelines as a recommended treatment with oral rehydration therapy for pediatric diarrhea.
• Updated dosing guidance for children is emphasized in global child health policies.
• Pregnancy/lactation intake recommendations have been clarified, cautioning against high doses beyond RDA unless medically indicated.

• Store at 20–25°C (68–77°F), in a dry place.
• Protect from moisture, heat, and light.
• Do not refrigerate.
• For dispersible tablets: Handle with dry hands; dissolve completely before administration.