Treatment of conditions associated with zinc deficiency such as acrodermatitis enteropathica{zinc sulfate}

Zinc Sulfate is a source of Zinc, which is an essential element of nutrition and traces are present in a wide range of foods. Zinc is a constituent of many enzyme systems and is present in all tissues. Features of Zinc deficiency include growth retardation and defects of rapidly dividing tissues such as the skin, the immune system and the intestinal mucosa. Zinc salts (generally Zinc Sulfate) are used as supplements to correct Zinc deficiency; they have been tried in the treatment of a large number of conditions because of an associated reduced concentration of Zinc in body.

Indication

Zinc Sulfate is indicated in following conditions

· Growth retardation

· Skin lesion

· Increased susceptibility of infections

· Failure to thrive in children

· Absent perceptions of taste and smell

· Alopecia

· Diarrhea

· Immunologic dysfunction

· Psychological disturbances

· Impaired spermatogenesis

· Congenital malformation

· Acrodermatitis enteropathica

Dosage and administration

Children under 10 kg: 2 teaspoonfuls/day after food (in divided doses)

Children within 10 to 30 kg: 2 teaspoonfuls 1-3 times/day after food.

Adults & over 30 kg: 4 teaspoonful 1-3 times/day after food.

Side effect

Side effects are particularly common if taken on an empty stomach. Zinc salts may cause abdominal pain and dyspepsia.

Chronic Zinc poisoning has not been identified with certainty, although prolonged use may lead to Copper deficiency with associated anemia & Neutrogena. In acute over dosage Zinc salts are corrosive due to the formation of Zinc Chloride by stomach acid; corrosion can be avoided with administration of milk or alkali carbonates & activated charcoal.

Pregnancy and lactation

Zinc sulfate has been assigned to pregnancy category C by the FDA. Safety for use in pregnancy has not been established. The risk of fetal harm if used during pregnancy is remote. A dietary intake of 11 mg of zinc per day (19 to 50 years of age) and 12 mg per day (14 to 18 years of age) is recommended during pregnancy. Additional zinc sulfate should only be given during pregnancy when need has been clearly established.

Precaution

Accumulation of zinc may occur in case of renal failure. Zinc may inhibit the absorption of concurrently administered Tetracycline.