Zifort
Generic Name
Zinc Sulfate Monohydrate (equivalent to 10 mg elemental zinc/5 ml)
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| zifort 10 mg syrup | ৳ 30.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Zifort 10 mg Syrup is a zinc supplement used to prevent and treat zinc deficiency. It is also used as an adjunct therapy in the management of acute and persistent diarrhea, especially in children.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
20 mg elemental zinc once daily for up to 10-14 days in diarrhea, or as directed by physician for deficiency.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required. Use adult dosage.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is generally required for mild to moderate renal impairment. Caution advised in severe impairment.
How to Take
Zifort 10 mg Syrup is taken orally. It can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Mechanism of Action
Zinc is an essential trace element involved in numerous enzymatic reactions, immune function, cell growth and division, and wound healing. In diarrhea, zinc supplementation helps to reduce the duration and severity of the episode and may prevent future occurrences.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Nutritional benefits are gradual. For diarrhea, clinical improvement is typically observed within a few days of starting supplementation.
Excretion
Mainly excreted via feces (approximately 90%), with a small amount excreted in urine and sweat.
Half life
The elimination half-life of zinc is complex and varies, but plasma zinc has a relatively rapid turnover.
Absorption
Approximately 20-40% of dietary zinc is absorbed, primarily from the small intestine. Absorption can be affected by food components like phytates and calcium.
Metabolism
Zinc is not metabolized in the classical sense but is incorporated into various metalloenzymes and proteins throughout the body.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to zinc or any component of the formulation.
Drug Interactions
Penicillamine
Zinc can reduce the absorption of penicillamine.
Copper Supplements
High doses of zinc can interfere with copper absorption and metabolism, potentially leading to copper deficiency.
Iron and Calcium Supplements
Can decrease zinc absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
Tetracycline and Quinolone Antibiotics
Zinc can chelate with these antibiotics, reducing their absorption. Administer zinc at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after these antibiotics.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute zinc overdose include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and lethargy. Chronic overdose can lead to copper deficiency, anemia, and neurological problems. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Zinc is an essential nutrient during pregnancy and lactation. However, excessive doses should be avoided. Consult a doctor before use.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to zinc or any component of the formulation.
Drug Interactions
Penicillamine
Zinc can reduce the absorption of penicillamine.
Copper Supplements
High doses of zinc can interfere with copper absorption and metabolism, potentially leading to copper deficiency.
Iron and Calcium Supplements
Can decrease zinc absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
Tetracycline and Quinolone Antibiotics
Zinc can chelate with these antibiotics, reducing their absorption. Administer zinc at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after these antibiotics.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute zinc overdose include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and lethargy. Chronic overdose can lead to copper deficiency, anemia, and neurological problems. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Zinc is an essential nutrient during pregnancy and lactation. However, excessive doses should be avoided. Consult a doctor before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, healthcare facilities
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy of zinc supplementation in reducing the severity and duration of diarrhea, particularly in children in developing countries. It is a well-researched essential micronutrient.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum zinc levels (rarely needed for routine supplementation)
- Copper levels (with prolonged high-dose zinc therapy to monitor for deficiency).
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of early zinc supplementation for pediatric diarrhea as per WHO guidelines.
- Advise parents on proper rehydration therapy alongside zinc supplementation.
- Monitor for signs of copper deficiency in patients on prolonged high-dose zinc therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting a healthcare professional.
- If symptoms of zinc deficiency or diarrhea persist, consult your doctor.
- Take with food if stomach upset occurs.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Zifort 10 mg Syrup is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.
- For diarrhea, ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.