Zinc Sulfate

A to Z Drug Facts

(zink SULL-fate)

Eye-Sed, Orazinc, Verazinc, Zinc 15, Zinc-220, Zinca-Pak, Zincate,  PMS-Egozinc

Class: Mineral

 Action Acts as integral part of several enzymes important to protein and carbohydrate metabolism, wound healing, maintenance of normal growth and skin hydration, and senses of taste and smell.

 Indications Dietary supplementation; supplement to IV solutions given for TPN; treatment or prevention of zinc deficiencies. Ophthalmic solution used as mild astringent for relief of eye irritation. unlabeled use(s): Treatment of acrodermatitis enteropathica and delayed wound healing associated with zinc deficiency; treatment of acne, rheumatoid arthritis, Wilson's disease.

 Contraindications Direct injection of undiluted solution into peripheral vein.

 Route/Dosage

Dietary Supplement

ADULTS: PO 25 to 50 mg/day.

Supplement to IV Solutions

METABOLICALLY STABLE ADULTS: IV 2.5 to 4 mg/day. Add 2 mg/day for acute catabolic state. STABLE ADULTS WITH FLUID LOSS FROM SMALL BOWEL: IV Increase dose by 12.2 mg/L TPN or 17.1 mg/kg loose stool or ileostomy output. FULL-TERM INFANTS & CHILDREN < 5 YR: IV 100 mcg/kg/day. PREMATURE INFANTS < 3 KG: IV 300 mcg/kg/day.

Astringent

ADULTS: Ophthalmic: 1 to2 gtt into eye(s) up to 4 times daily.

 Interactions

Fluoroquinolones; tetracyclines: Absorption of these agents may be decreased.

 Lab Test Interferences None well documented.

 Adverse Reactions

GI: Nausea; vomiting (especially in large oral doses).

 Precautions

Pregnancy: Category C. Routine supplementation during pregnancy is not recommended. Lactation: Excreted in breast milk. Excessive intake: In healthy people may be harmful. Benzyl alcohol: Some of these products contain benzyl alcohol, which has been associated with a fatal “gasping” syndrome in premature infants. Renal impairment: Dosage reduction may be required in patients with renal dysfunction. IV products: Some contain benzyl alcohol, which is associated with fatal “gasping syndrome” in infants.

 Administration/Storage

• If GI upset occurs, administer oral form with food but not with dairy products, bran, or foods containing caffeine.
• Dilute IV solutions prior to administration.
• To prevent contamination of ophthalmic solution, avoid contacting tip of container with any other surface and tightly close container after use.
• Do not use ophthalmic solution if becomes discolored or cloudy.

 Assessment/Interventions

• Obtain patient history, including drug history and any known allergies.
• If eye irritation persists or increases or pain or vision change occurs, consult health care provider.

 Patient/Family Education

• Tell patient to contact health care provider if nausea, severe vomiting, dehydration, or restlessness occurs.
• Identify food sources of zinc (eg, seafood, organ meats, wheat germ).
• Inform patient that sense of taste and smell, skin hydration, and wound healing should improve.
• Instruct patient to follow RDA guidelines and limitations in terms of vitamin and mineral supplementation.
• Tell patient to take with food if GI upset occurs but to avoid foods high in calcium, phosphorus, and phytate. Inform patient that bran, caffeine, and dairy products may decrease absorption.
• Tell patient to notify health care provider if change in vision occurs or if eye irritation or pain persists or increases while using ophthalmic form.
• Teach patient proper administration technique for eye drops.

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Copyright © 2003 Facts and Comparisons
David S. Tatro
A to Z Drug Facts