What is this medication for?
Zinc is a type of mineral that helps to boost the immune system and improve wound healing. It also plays a crucial role in reproductive health in both men and women. Zinc can also be used in Wilson’s disease (a genetic condition where the body is unable to remove excess copper, leading to build-up of copper in important body organs such as brain, liver and eyes).
This medication may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
How should I take or use this medication?
Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.
What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?
Inform your healthcare professional if:
- You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
- You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
What are some common side effects of this medication?
- Stomach discomfort
- Take after meals
What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?
The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:
- Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
- Difficulty in breathing
- Itchy skin rashes over your whole body
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.
What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?
This medicine may decrease the absorption of some medications such as:
- Medicines used to treat osteoporosis eg alendronate
- Medicines used to treat HIV infection eg. dolutegravir, raltegravir
- Antibiotics eg. ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, tetracycline
Take zinc at least 2 hours after taking the medications listed above.
How should I store this medication?
Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.
How do I throw away this medication safely?
Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.
Disclaimer
Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side-effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side-effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.
This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (NHG Health, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.
Contributed By
- Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore