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Zinc: uses, side effects & brands
Zinc supports immunity and shortens childhood diarrhoea when given with ORS. It belongs to the Vitamin & supplement group. Supplements correct deficiencies and support health when diet or absorption falls short.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Vitamin & supplement |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Childhood diarrhoea, given together with ORS
- Zinc deficiency (from poor diet or poor absorption)
- Supporting healing in people who are low in zinc
Common brand names
- India: Zincovit, Z&D, Zinconia
- Worldwide: (zinc sulfate/gluconate brands)
Common side effects
- Nausea or stomach upset, especially on an empty stomach
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Vomiting soon after a dose (more common in children)
Before taking it — precautions
- Long-term high intake can lower copper levels and cause anaemia — do not take extra for long without advice
- Zinc reduces absorption of some antibiotics (such as tetracyclines and ciprofloxacin) — take them a few hours apart
- Iron supplements can reduce zinc absorption — ask your doctor or pharmacist how to space them
When to see a doctor urgently
- Child with diarrhoea who is very drowsy, not drinking, has sunken eyes or passes little urine (urgent)
- Blood in the stool or high fever with diarrhoea
- Rash, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing (urgent)
Frequently asked questions
Why is zinc given for diarrhoea?
Zinc helps the gut lining recover, shortens the illness and lowers the chance of diarrhoea returning in the following months. It does not replace ORS, which prevents dehydration.
Should I stop zinc once the diarrhoea stops?
No — finish the full number of days your doctor advised, even if the child is better.
Can I take zinc every day long term?
Only if your doctor advises it. Too much zinc over a long time can cause copper deficiency and anaemia.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.