Zinctab
Generic Name
Zinc Sulfate Monohydrate 20 mg (Elemental Zinc)
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| zinctab 20 mg tablet | ৳ 2.75 | ৳ 27.50 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Zinctab 20 mg Tablet contains Zinc Sulfate Monohydrate, providing 20 mg of elemental zinc. Zinc is an essential trace element vital for various biological functions, including immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and cell division.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For zinc deficiency: 20-40 mg elemental zinc daily, usually in divided doses. For acute diarrhea: 20 mg elemental zinc daily for 10-14 days.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage. Monitor for potential interactions with other medications.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment required, but use with caution and monitor zinc levels in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably after meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not take with foods high in phytates (e.g., whole-grain bread, legumes) or dairy products, as they can reduce absorption. Separate from other interacting medications.
Mechanism of Action
Zinc acts as a cofactor for over 300 enzymes involved in metabolism, DNA and RNA synthesis, and gene expression. It plays a crucial role in maintaining immune system integrity, protecting against oxidative damage, and supporting cellular growth and differentiation.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects for deficiency may take days to weeks to manifest. For acute conditions like diarrhea, benefits are observed within days.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in feces (about 90%) via biliary and pancreatic routes, with minor amounts excreted in urine and sweat.
Half life
The biological half-life of whole-body zinc is approximately 125 days.
Absorption
Approximately 20-30% of dietary zinc is absorbed, primarily from the duodenum and jejunum. Absorption is influenced by zinc status, dietary factors (e.g., phytates, fiber, iron, calcium), and other medications.
Metabolism
Zinc is not metabolized in the traditional sense; it is absorbed and incorporated into various tissues and proteins throughout the body.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to zinc or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with severe kidney disease without medical supervision.
- Patients with copper deficiency (high doses of zinc can exacerbate copper deficiency).
Drug Interactions
Penicillamine
Zinc may decrease the absorption of penicillamine. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
Iron supplements
High doses of iron may interfere with zinc absorption, and vice-versa. Administer separately.
Calcium and Magnesium supplements
High doses may interfere with zinc absorption. Administer separately.
Tetracyclines (e.g., Doxycycline)
Zinc can reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
Fluoroquinolones (e.g., Ciprofloxacin)
Zinc can reduce the absorption of fluoroquinolone antibiotics. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute zinc overdose include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy. Chronic high-dose zinc intake can lead to copper deficiency, anemia, and neurological problems. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; induce emesis or gastric lavage if recent ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Zinc is an essential nutrient during pregnancy and lactation. Recommended daily allowances should be met, but high doses should only be used if clearly indicated by a healthcare professional and under medical supervision.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to zinc or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with severe kidney disease without medical supervision.
- Patients with copper deficiency (high doses of zinc can exacerbate copper deficiency).
Drug Interactions
Penicillamine
Zinc may decrease the absorption of penicillamine. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
Iron supplements
High doses of iron may interfere with zinc absorption, and vice-versa. Administer separately.
Calcium and Magnesium supplements
High doses may interfere with zinc absorption. Administer separately.
Tetracyclines (e.g., Doxycycline)
Zinc can reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
Fluoroquinolones (e.g., Ciprofloxacin)
Zinc can reduce the absorption of fluoroquinolone antibiotics. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute zinc overdose include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy. Chronic high-dose zinc intake can lead to copper deficiency, anemia, and neurological problems. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; induce emesis or gastric lavage if recent ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Zinc is an essential nutrient during pregnancy and lactation. Recommended daily allowances should be met, but high doses should only be used if clearly indicated by a healthcare professional and under medical supervision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, consult product packaging for exact date.
Availability
Pharmacies, drug stores
Approval Status
Approved by national health authorities
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of zinc supplementation in reducing the duration and severity of acute diarrhea in children, and in treating and preventing zinc deficiency. Research also supports its role in immune function.
Lab Monitoring
- Plasma zinc levels (if deficiency is suspected or to monitor therapy).
- Copper levels (for patients on long-term high-dose zinc therapy to prevent deficiency).
- Blood cell counts (if anemia is suspected due to copper deficiency).
Doctor Notes
- Assess patient's zinc status before initiating therapy, especially if signs of deficiency are present.
- Advise patients on potential drug and food interactions, emphasizing separation of administration for certain medications.
- Monitor for signs of copper deficiency in patients on long-term or high-dose zinc therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Zinctab exactly as prescribed or directed on the label.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting a doctor.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all other medications and supplements you are taking.
- If gastrointestinal upset occurs, try taking the tablet with food, but avoid high-phytate foods or dairy.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Zinctab 20 mg Tablet is generally not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience side effects like dizziness, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in zinc (e.g., meat, shellfish, legumes, nuts).
- Consult a nutritionist for dietary guidance if you have specific dietary restrictions.
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