Drug Guide
Zinc Acetate
Classification
Therapeutic: Mineral and Dietary Supplement
Pharmacological: Zinc supplement
FDA Approved Indications
- Treatment of zinc deficiency
Mechanism of Action
Provides zinc, an essential mineral involved in numerous enzyme systems, immune function, wound healing, and cell growth and development.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Typically 45 mg of elemental zinc daily, but dosage varies based on deficiency and clinical guidelines.
Pediatric: Dosed based on age and zinc deficiency status; consult specific pediatric guidelines.
Geriatric: Adjust dose based on zinc levels and renal function, monitor for toxicity.
Renal Impairment: Use caution; monitor zinc levels, adjust dose accordingly.
Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustments needed.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Absorbed in the small intestine, with variable bioavailability.
Distribution: Distributed widely throughout the body, concentrating in the liver, pancreas, and bones.
Metabolism: Not significantly metabolized, administered as inorganic zinc.
Excretion: Primarily excreted in the feces, with some urinary excretion.
Half Life: Approximately 280 days in zinc deficiency; varies with levels and tissue stores.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to zinc or components of the formulation.
Precautions
- Use cautiously in patients with renal impairment, as zinc can accumulate and cause toxicity.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Nausea (Common)
- Vomiting (Common)
- Abdominal cramps (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Copper deficiency with long-term high doses (Uncommon)
- Zinc toxicity (metal fume fever, anemia) (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines, quinolones) — zinc may impair absorption.
- Penicillamine — may interfere with zinc absorption.
Drug-Food Interactions
- Phytates found in whole grains and legumes can inhibit zinc absorption.
Drug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Assess for zinc deficiency symptoms and monitor zinc levels during therapy.
Diagnoses:
- Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements.
- Risk of electrolyte imbalance.
Implementation: Administer with meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset; monitor for signs of toxicity.
Evaluation: Evaluate improvement in deficiency symptoms and monitor serum zinc levels.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Take zinc supplements with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset.
- Avoid excessive intake to prevent toxicity.
- Inform about potential interactions with dairy and high-phytate foods.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- None currently issued by FDA.
Genetic Factors: Genetic variations in zinc transporters may affect absorption and utilization.
Lab Test Interference: Zinc can interfere with laboratory copper measurements and certain enzyme activities.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, copper deficiency symptoms.
Treatment: Discontinue zinc; supportive care; in severe cases, chelation therapy with EDTA or other agents under medical supervision.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, protected from moisture and light.
Stability: Stable when stored properly, generally for several years.