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zinc sulfate

Generic
Used for Nutritional Deficiency
Used for Nutritional Deficiency

Zinc is a supplement that's taken by mouth to prevent and treat low levels of zinc. There are different forms of zinc, like zinc sulfate and zinc gluconate. Zinc supplements come in different formulations (e.g., tablets, liquid) that are available over the counter. Your dosage depends on your age and the form of zinc you're taking, so follow the directions on the manufacturer's label or your provider's instructions. Side effects aren't common, but you might have an upset stomach and a metallic taste in your mouth if you take too much zinc.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on October 15, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageLatest newsReferencesPricesMedicare
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What is Zinc supplements?

What is Zinc supplements used for?

  • Low blood levels of zinc

How Zinc supplements works

Zinc supplements raise the level of zinc in your body. Your body needs zinc to help your immune system fight off infections, make genetic material (e.g., DNA) and proteins, and help with healing wounds. It's also needed during pregnancy and childhood for proper growth and development.

Are you looking for information on Galzin (zinc acetate) for Wilson disease instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsNo brand available
Drug ClassDietary supplement
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter

More on Zinc supplements essentials

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Does Zinc Help With Colds?

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What are the side effects of Zinc supplements?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Side effects aren't common. See Other Side Effects.

Other Side Effects

Source: NIH

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Zinc supplements

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Pros

Available over the counter

Available as lower-cost generics

Safe for pregnant people

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Cons

Can cause stomach problems if you take too much zinc

Your body might absorb less zinc when you take it with food

Can interact with other medications, such as certain antibiotics and diuretics

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Zinc supplements

pharmacist

  • There are several manufacturers and products of zinc supplements that contain different strengths or even combinations of different forms of zinc. Carefully read the package label or ask your provider about the strength of the zinc supplement you have. Ask your provider or pharmacist if you're not sure which product is right for you.

    • Zinc can interact with many common medications, such as ACE inhibitors, quinolone antibiotics, and tetracycline antibiotics. Tell your provider or pharmacist about all the medications you're taking before starting a zinc supplement. Don't start any new medications while you're taking a zinc supplement without talking to your provider or pharmacist first. You might need to take the zinc supplement and your other medications at different times to avoid drug interactions.

      • Speak to your provider before starting zinc supplements if you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Your provider can recommend how much zinc you should take and which formulation is safe for you and your child.

        • Don't take more than one zinc supplement unless your provider recommended you to do so. Taking too much zinc can cause side effects, such as nausea and vomiting.

          • Keep zinc supplements out of reach of children so that they don't accidentally take it. Call your local Poison Control Center right away at 1-800-222-1222 if your child took zinc supplements and they have diarrhea or stomach pain.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Zinc supplements

            Should I take zinc supplements?
            Don't take a zinc supplement unless your provider checked your zinc levels and said that you need one. Most people don't typically need a zinc supplement because they already get enough zinc from food (e.g., shelled seafood, beef, beans, yogurt). Taking extra zinc won't help you if you're already getting enough zinc. In fact, taking too much zinc can potentially cause stomach side effects, such as diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. And having high levels of zinc over a long period of time might also lead to low copper or iron levels.
            When should I take zinc supplements?
            Most zinc supplements that you can get over the counter, like zinc sulfate or zinc gluconate, should be taken at the same time every day. Taking it with food might help prevent stomach upset. Ask your provider or pharmacist if you're unsure how to take your zinc supplement.
            What is the best zinc supplement?
            It's unclear whether one form of zinc is better than another. Ask your provider or pharmacist for guidance in choosing a trustworthy zinc supplement, such as one that's been tested by NSF or is USP certified. These markings on a product bottle mean that the supplement has gone through extra testing to make sure it contains ingredients listed on the label and not other potentially harmful ingredients.
            What are the common forms of zinc supplements?
            Some common forms of oral zinc supplements include zinc gluconate, zinc sulfate, and zinc acetate. The main difference between these forms is the percentage of elemental zinc they contain: zinc gluconate (14%), zinc sulfate (23%), and zinc acetate (30%). Elemental zinc is the amount of zinc that your body actually absorbs. When you're choosing a zinc supplement, make sure to read the label to find out the form of zinc it contains and the amount of zinc you're getting from the product. Ask your provider if you're not sure how much zinc you need to take and which supplement is right for you.
            How much zinc supplement can I take per day?
            The recommended daily amount of zinc you need depends on your age and gender, with teenagers and adult males requiring the most. Your daily zinc requirements are also greater if you're a pregnant or breastfeeding female. Confirm with your provider first about how much zinc you should take per day. Then, ask your provider whether you need a zinc supplement and which one is appropriate for you. Different zinc supplements can contain different strengths and forms of zinc.
            Can zinc supplements be used to help fight off the common cold?
            Some studies show that zinc supplements might shorten the length of time that you're sick if you take it within 24 hours of the start of your symptoms. Though unclear, researchers believe that zinc might help stop the common cold virus from spreading in your nose and throat. Keep in mind that researchers used zinc in lozenge or syrup form in these studies. More research is needed to help better understand the proper form, dosage, and directions for using zinc supplements to fight off the common cold. Speak with your healthcare provider if you have additional questions about zinc supplements and the common cold.
            Can I take zinc supplements with antibiotics?
            It depends on the antibiotic you're taking. If you're taking quinolone or tetracycline antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro) or tetracycline, you'll need to avoid taking them at the same time as your zinc supplement. Taking these types of antibiotics and zinc at the same time will make it difficult for your body to absorb both zinc and the antibiotic. If you're taking one of these antibiotics, make sure to take the antibiotic at least 2 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after your zinc supplement. Ask your provider or pharmacist whether you need to separate when you take your supplements and antibiotics.
            Can I take a zinc supplement if I'm pregnant?
            Yes, taking zinc during pregnancy is safe and recommended for pregnant females who need it. Research suggests that low zinc levels can lead to preterm birth. However, don't take a zinc supplement unless your provider specifically said to do so. Talk to your provider if you're pregnant or thinking of getting pregnant to see whether a zinc supplement is right for you.
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            What are the risks and warnings for Zinc supplements?

            Zinc supplements can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            Risks with taking too much zinc

            Taking too much zinc can cause stomach problems, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and loss of appetite. You might also have a metallic taste in your mouth. Some people might also have headaches or feel dizzy. It's also possible that taking too much zinc for a long time can negatively affect your immune system and lower the levels of certain nutrients in your body (e.g., copper, magnesium). Speak with your provider about the amount of zinc you should be taking and for how long. Talk to your provider if you experience any of these symptoms.

            dosage

            Zinc supplements dosage forms

            Typical dosing for Zinc supplements

            In general, the recommended amount of zinc you need varies depending on your age and gender. Different zinc supplements can contain different strengths and forms of zinc. Take your product according to the directions on manufacturer's label or according to your provider's instructions.

            More on Zinc supplements dosage forms

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            References

            Best studies we found

            Institute of Medicine. (2001). Zinc. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc.

            National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. (2022). Zinc: Fact sheet for consumers.

            National Sanitation Foundation. (n.d.). Supplement and vitamin certification.

            View All References (5)

            Ota, E., et al. (2015). Zinc supplementation for improving pregnancy and infant outcome. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.

            Saper, R. B., et al. (2009). Zinc: An essential micronutrient. American Family Physician.

            Singh, M., et al. (2015). Withdrawn: Zinc for the common cold. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.

            U.S. Pharmacopeia. (n.d.). USP Verified Mark.

            Wegmüller, R., et al. (2014). Zinc absorption by young adults from supplemental zinc citrate is comparable with that from zinc gluconate and higher than from zinc oxide. The Journal of Nutrition.

            GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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