Receiving Helpdesk

zinc tablets side effects

by Judy Heidenreich Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago

Common side effects may include:

  • upset stomach;
  • headache; or
  • unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth.

Zinc supplements are generally well tolerated, though they've been associated with adverse side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain in some people ( 1 ). Plus, exceeding 40 mg per day of elemental zinc can cause flu-like symptoms like fever, coughing, headache, and fatigue ( 1 ).Jul 15, 2020

Full Answer

Does zinc have any negative side effects?

Oral zinc sulfate supplements can also cause side effects such as stomach upset, heartburn and nausea. Rare side effects have also been reported and these include fever, sore throat, mouth sores, weakness and fatigue.

What are the negative side effects of zinc?

Sep 12, 2021 · "People with skin ulcers and low levels of zinc might benefit from oral zinc supplements," says the Mayo Clinic. "Topical administration of zinc appears to be superior to oral therapy due to its ...

Why does zinc upset my stomach?

Jan 18, 2022 · Zinc Supplements: Benefits, Dosage, and Side Effects. Treats zinc deficiency. Zinc supplements are often used to help treat and prevent zinc deficiency. Though zinc deficiency is uncommon, the mineral is ... May improve immune function. May promote blood sugar management. Helps fight acne. May ...

Do zinc supplements have side effects?

Feb 26, 2021 · The Benefits and Side Effects of Zinc Symptoms of zinc deficiency. Your sense of taste is altered so that you cannot taste salt and sugar at normal levels. Zinc Side Effects. Everything, when not taken in moderation, has the potential to be harmful. Zinc is a naturally... Conclusion. Men who are ...

Are there negative side effects to taking zinc?

Taking very high doses of zinc is likely unsafe and might cause stomach pain, vomiting, and many other problems. Single doses of 10-30 grams of zinc can be fatal. When applied to the skin: Zinc is likely safe. Using zinc on broken skin may cause burning, stinging, itching, and tingling.

Is it OK to take zinc daily?

Including zinc in your diet every day is okay, provided it is within the recommended daily allowance, which is 8 mg for women and 11 mg for adult men. Since zinc is a trace mineral, consumption of an excess amount can cause health problems.

What happens when you start taking zinc?

Zinc may effectively reduce inflammation, boost immune health, reduce your risk of age-related diseases, speed wound healing and improve acne symptoms.

Who should not take zinc?

Medications that may interfere with zinc include: blood pressure medications, penicillamine, amiloride, certain antibiotics, ACE inhibitors, cisplatin, immunosuppressant medications, deferoxamine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and thiazide diuretics.

Why do I feel sick after taking zinc?

When you take a zinc supplement orally, it will dissolve in a single spot when it reaches your stomach. As it dissolves, the heavy concentration of zinc could irritate the stomach lining in that area, leading to pain or discomfort in addition to nausea or the risk of vomiting.

Can zinc cause blood clots?

There is a lot of evidence linking zinc to blood clotting. Zinc is released from cells called platelets that control blood clotting, and scientists have found unwanted blood clots can form when zinc levels in the blood are faulty.

When should I take zinc morning or night?

Zinc is often part of multivitamins but is also taken alone or in combination with vitamin C. Its absorption is most effective on an empty stomach, but it can cause stomach upsets. In this case it should be taken with a meal and therefore not late at night.

Is it OK to take vitamin C and zinc together?

In pooled analyses of both studies (n=94), vitamin C plus zinc was significantly more efficient than placebo at reducing rhinorrhoea over 5 days of treatment. Furthermore, symptom relief was quicker and the product was well tolerated.

When is the best time to take zinc?

Zinc supplements are most effective if they are taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. However, if zinc supplements cause stomach upset, they may be taken with a meal. You should tell your health care professional if you are taking your zinc supplement with meals.

Does zinc lower your blood pressure?

The researchers found that zinc affects the muscles, endothelial cells, and sensory nerves together, reducing the amount of calcium in the muscles and causing them to relax. This, in turn, results in increased blood flow and lower blood pressure.

What are the benefits of taking zinc daily?

Zinc, a nutrient found throughout your body, helps your immune system and metabolism function. Zinc is also important to wound healing and your sense of taste and smell. With a varied diet, your body usually gets enough zinc.

How much zinc can you take in a day?

Health authorities have set the tolerable upper intake level (UL) for zinc at 40 mg per day for adults. The UL is the highest recommended daily amount of a nutrient. For most people, this amount is unlikely to cause negative side effects ( 1 , 2).

What are the symptoms of overdose?

Symptoms of overdose. Chest pain. dizziness. fainting. shortness of breath. vomiting. yellow eyes or skin. Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Can dietary supplements cause side effects?

Along with its needed effects, a dietary supplement may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

How long does it take for zinc to stop?

Stop taking zinc. In as little as 24 hours, symptoms will begin to improve. And to ensure that your zinc supplements never cause overdose symptoms, make sure you get 3 milligrams (just 3!) of copper every day, to keep zinc and copper in balance.

How much zinc is absorbed by the body?

However, the truth of the matter is that only about 30% of the zinc that you intake can get absorbed by your body. Many factors can interfere with zinc absorption such as phytates in your brain and fibers. If your body cannot absorb as much as it needs, you may need to take zinc supplements in order to prevent zinc deficiency.

How much zinc is in orange juice?

Causing symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and destruction of white blood cells, zinc toxicity usually occurs when someone has drunk large quantities of an acidic beverage, such as orange juice, from a galvanized (zinc lined) container, releasing 800 to 2,000 mg of zinc per day, or more.

What foods are good for zinc?

Fortunately, a healthy daily diet can provide you with just enough zinc that you need. It is found in ordinary foods that we take such as red meat, sea foods and poultry. Oysters are the most excellent zinc sources. If you are not much into meats or seafood, other good sources include beans, whole grains, dairy products, cereals and nuts.

What is zinc used for?

Zinc is an essential mineral that is needed by your body to manufacture about 300 enzymes. Each of these enzymes have diverse processes and functions such as cell reproduction, immunity, protein synthesis, wound repair , vision, free radical protection and immunity.

What are some good sources of zinc?

If you are not much into meats or seafood, other good sources include beans, whole grains, dairy products, cereals and nuts. However, zinc absorption is more effective if they come from animal proteins than from plant sources.

Can zinc sulfate cause stomach upset?

Oral zinc sulfate supplements can also cause side effects such as stomach upset, heartburn and nausea. Rare side effects have also been reported and these include fever, sore throat, mouth sores, weakness and fatigue.

What is zinc used for?

Zinc is well known for its role in blood sugar control and insulin secretion. Insulin is the hormone responsible for transporting sugar from your bloodstream to your tissues ( 14#N#Trusted Source#N#).

How much zinc is needed for colds?

One review of seven studies showed that zinc lozenges containing 80-92 mg of zinc may reduce common cold duration by up to 33% ( 10. Trusted Source. ). Zinc may also act as an antioxidant, helping reduce inflammation and protecting against chronic conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes ( 11.

What is zinc gluconate used for?

Here are a few you might find on the market: Zinc gluconate: As one of the most common over-the-counter forms of zinc, zinc gluconate is often used in cold remedies, such as lozenges and nasal sprays ( 2 ). ).

What is the best zinc for colds?

Here are a few you might find on the market: 1 Zinc gluconate: As one of the most common over-the-counter forms of zinc, zinc gluconate is often used in cold remedies, such as lozenges and nasal sprays ( 2 ). 2 Zinc acetate: Like zinc gluconate, zinc acetate is often added to cold lozenges to reduce symptoms and speed up the rate of recovery ( 3#N#Trusted Source#N#). 3 Zinc sulfate: In addition to helping prevent zinc deficiency, zinc sulfate has been shown to reduce the severity of acne ( 4#N#Trusted Source#N#). 4 Zinc picolinate: Some research suggests that your body may absorb this form better than other types of zinc, including zinc gluconate and zinc citrate ( 5#N#Trusted Source#N#). 5 Zinc orotate: This form is bound to orotic acid and one of the most common types of zinc supplements on the market ( 6 ). 6 Zinc citrate: One study showed that this type of zinc supplement is as well-absorbed as zinc gluconate but has a less bitter, more appealing taste ( 7#N#Trusted Source#N#).

Is zinc picolinate good for you?

Trusted Source. ). Because it’s one of the most widely available and cost-effective forms of zinc, zinc gluconate can be a good option to help bump up your intake without breaking your bank. However, if you’re able to invest a bit more, zinc picolinate may be better absorbed.

Does zinc sulfate help acne?

Zinc sulfate: In addition to helping prevent zinc deficiency , zinc sulfate has been shown to reduce the severity of acne ( 4. Trusted Source. ). Zinc picolinate: Some research suggests that your body may absorb this form better than other types of zinc, including zinc gluconate and zinc citrate ( 5. Trusted Source.

Can zinc supplements cause digestive issues?

Summary. Zinc can cause negative side effects, including digestive issues and flu-like symptoms.

What happens if you don't take zinc?

The important thing to understand when it comes to the benefits of zinc is that if you don’t consume enough zinc in your diet or in supplement form you will have a deficiency.

How do you know if you have zinc deficiency?

Symptoms of zinc deficiency. Your sense of taste is altered so that you cannot taste salt and sugar at normal levels. You will end up consuming more sodium and sugar than is good for you. You will get frequent diarrhea that is not linked to food poisoning.

What is the reason for zinc deficiency in men?

One of the telling factors for men who suffer zinc deficiency is reduced muscle mass and an overall struggle with bodybuilding. Today, most of the zinc that is consumed outside of the diet is consumed in the form of herbal supplements.

Why does zinc cause gastric pain?

If you consume more than this you many experience gastric discomfort because it may irritate the gut. You may also experience headaches accompanied by drowsiness as well as a metallic taste in the mouth. It should be noted, however, that this is when zinc is consumed at very high levels in supplement form.

What foods are good for zinc?

These include: red meat, poultry and fish, other kinds of sea food, dairy products, whole cereals and some dark, green, leafy vegetables.

Does zinc help with menstrual symptoms?

If you get any wound they take a long time to heal. You will hear frequent ringing in your ears. Think of zinc benefits as the opposite of these symptoms. They include good vision, great hair, skin and nails, a good appetite, proper growth in kids and teenagers and it also helps alleviate menstrual symptoms.

Is zinc good for prostate?

Zinc is an element that is necessary for women and children as well. Just do your research and make sure you are taking zinc in an appropriate way. Like most things, too much of a good thing turns into a bad thing.

What are the effects of zinc deficiency?

Zinc is used for the treatment and prevention of zinc deficiency and its consequences, including stunted growth and acute diarrhea in children, slow wound healing, and Wilson's disease.

How long after taking antibiotics can you take zinc?

To avoid this interaction take zinc supplements at least 1 hour after antibiotics. Some of these antibiotics that might interact with zinc include ciprofloxacin (Cipro), enoxacin (Penetrex), norfloxacin (Chibroxin, Noroxin), sparfloxacin (Zagam), trovafloxacin (Trovan), and grepafloxacin (Raxar).

How long does zinc gluconate last?

For type 2 diabetes: 25 mg of zinc gluconate has been taken twice daily for 8 weeks. For diabetes in pregnant women: 30 mg of zinc gluconate has been taken daily for 6 weeks. For reduced ability to taste (hypogeusia): 140-450 mg of zinc gluconate has been taken in up to three divided doses daily for up to 4 months.

Why is zinc considered an essential trace element?

It is called an "essential trace element" because very small amounts of zinc are necessary for human health. Since the human body does not store excess zinc, it must be consumed regularly as part of the diet. Common dietary sources of zinc include red meat, poultry, and fish.

How much zinc should I take daily?

For a disorder of zinc deficiency (acrodermatitis enteropathica): Taking 2-3 mg/kg of elemental zinc daily for a lifetime is recommended for treating an inherited disorder that affects zinc uptake. For an eating disorder (anorexia nervosa): 14-50 mg of elemental zinc has been used daily.

What is the role of zinc in the body?

Zinc plays a key role in maintaining vision, and it is present in high concentrations in the eye.

Why is zinc important for infants?

Giving zinc to underweight infants in developing countries seems to decrease the risk of death, prevent certain complications, and improve mental ability. Giving zinc supplements to low birth weight infants in industrialized countries also seems to help prevent some complications and death.

What is zinc good for?

Zinc is also important to wound healing and your sense of taste and smell. With a varied diet, your body usually gets enough zinc. Food sources of zinc include chicken, red meat and fortified breakfast cereals.

How long after zinc can you take antibiotics?

Taking the antibiotic two hours before or four to six hours after taking zinc can minimize this effect. Penicillamine. Using oral zinc with the rheumatoid arthritis drug penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen) can reduce the drug's ability to ease arthritis symptoms.

Does zinc help with skin ulcers?

Wound healing. People with skin ulcers and low levels of zinc might benefit from oral zinc supplements. Diarrhea.

Can zinc help with diarrhea?

Oral zinc supplements can reduce the symptoms of diarrhea in children with low levels of zinc, such as from malnutrition. There isn't enough evidence to recommend use of oral zinc for children with diarrhea who have a healthy, varied diet. Age-related macular degeneration.

Does zinc oxide help with macular degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration. Research suggests that oral zinc might slow the progression of this eye disease. Zinc that's used topically is known as zinc oxide. Zinc oxide cream, ointment or paste is applied to the skin to prevent conditions such as diaper rash and sunburn.

Can zinc supplements be taken after a cold?

Oral zinc supplements might benefit people with low levels of zinc. Taken soon after cold symptoms appear, zinc might also shorten the length of a cold. However, don't use intranasal zinc, which has been linked with the loss of the sense of smell.

What Are Some Side Effects That I Need to Call My Doctor About Right away?

  • WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect: 1. Signs o
See more on drugs.com

What Are Some Other Side Effects of This Drug?

  • All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away. These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report …
See more on drugs.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Further Information

  • Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA. Medical Disclaimer
See more on drugs.com

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9