Brand Name: ZINMET
Generic Name: Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate
Preparations: 10/ 20 mg Dispersible Tablets
Pharmacological Categories: Trace Element, Micronutrient, Zinc Supplement

Mechanism of Action (MOA)
ZINMET (Zinc) blocks basolateral potassium (K+) channels and thus inhibits cAMP-induced chloride-dependent fluid secretion, a major control point for fluid secretions in the large intestine. ZINMET also improves the absorption of water and electrolytes.

ZINMET improves regeneration of the intestinal epithelium, increases the levels of brush border enzymes and enhances the immune response. Zinc deficiency reduces the number of B and T lymphocytes (CD4+ lymphocytes in particular) through increased apoptosis, and reduces their functional capacity.

ZINMET also plays a critical role in metallo-enzymes, polyribosomes and the cell membrane and cellular function.

Pharmacokinetics
• Absorption: Incompletely absorbed from gastrointestinal tract
• Bioavailability: About 20% to 30%
• Peak Plasma Concentration: Approximately 2 hours
• Elimination Half-life: 11 days following cessation of therapy
• Excretion: Faeces (primarily), small amounts in urine and perspiration

Indications and Dosage
• Acute and persistent diarrhoea: 10 mg to 20 mg daily for 10 days to 14 days
• Acrodermatitis Enteropathica: 1 mg/kg/day to 3 mg/kg/day

Side Effects
Nausea, vomiting, gastric irritation, elevation of serum alkaline phosphatase / amylase / lipase that may return to normal within 1-2 years of therapy, neurologic deterioration

Contraindication
Hypersensitivity to zinc

Warnings/ Precautions
• Do not take zinc supplements and copper / iron / phosphorus supplements at the same time. It is best to space doses of these products 2 hours apart to get the full benefit from each dietary supplement.
• Prolonged administration of high doses of zinc supplement can lead to copper deficiency with associated sideroblastic anemia and neutropenia

Drug Interactions
• Zinc decreases the absorption of quinolone antibiotics, tetracycline antibiotics, penicillamine, iron and copper.
• Zinc along with EDTA and cisplatin might increase the effects and side effects of cisplatin.
• Absorption of zinc may be reduced by iron supplement, penicillamine, phosphorus containing preparations and tetracyclines.

Presentations
ZINMET 10: 20 X 10’s
ZINMET 20: 20 X 10’s