Zinc sulfate tablets and capsules
Solvazinc, AadZinc
Peer reviewed by Sid DajaniLast updated by Michael Stewart, MRPharmSLast updated 17 Aug 2024
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Solvazinc® and AadZinc® tablets are effervescent - dissolve the tablet in a glass of water before swallowing.
ZincoPhate® capsules should be swallowed whole with a glass of water; do not open the capsules.
Take each dose just after a meal, or with a snack.
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About zinc sulfate
Type of medicine | A mineral |
Used for | Zinc deficiency |
Also called | Solvazinc®, AadZinc®, ZincoPhate® |
Available as | Effervescent (dissolvable) tablets, capsules |
Zinc is a mineral. It is involved in a number of body enzyme functions. It is important for wound healing and for the senses of taste and smell. However, if it is taken in large quantities, it can lead to toxicity. Because of this, zinc supplements should only be taken by people with conditions that cause a loss of zinc from the body, or where there is good evidence that zinc deficiency exists. Such conditions include large skin burns, following an injury, and in some metabolic diseases where there is interference in the way zinc is absorbed from food.
Another form of zinc, called zinc acetate dihydrate (brand name Wilzin®), is used in a completely different condition known as Wilson's disease. This is a genetic disorder where there is a build-up of copper which causes serious symptoms because the body is not able to get rid of it. Treatment with zinc helps to remove the excess copper and/or prevent a further build-up. This is a specialist treatment and no further information about this brand of zinc is included below. If you have been prescribed Wilzin® capsules, please ask your doctor if you require information about your treatment.
Before taking zinc sulfate
To make sure that this is the right treatment for you, before you start taking zinc sulfate it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you have any problems with the way your kidneys work.
If you have been told you have a copper deficiency.
If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.
If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
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How to take zinc sulfate
Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about zinc sulfate and will provide you with a full list of the side-effects which you could experience from taking it.
Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you what dose to take. The dose will also be printed on the label of the pack to remind you. As a guide, the dose for an adult or a child over 30 kg (approximately 10 years old) is one tablet, taken 1-3 times a day. If you are giving the tablets to a younger child, check the label carefully to make sure you are giving the correct dose for the weight of your child.
Zinc sulfate tablets are effervescent, which means that you should dissolve them in a glass of water to take them. Take each dose with a snack or just after eating a meal.
Zinc sulfate capsules should be swallowed whole with a drink of water; do not open the capsules.
If you forget to take a dose, don't worry, just take the next dose when it is due and then carry on as before. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.
Getting the most from your treatment
Try to keep any regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress.
If you buy any medicines, please check with a pharmacist that they are suitable to take with zinc tablets. This is because medicines which contain either iron or calcium can interfere with the way zinc is absorbed by your body.
If you need any antibiotics for an infection, please make sure that the doctor prescribing them for you is aware that you are taking zinc. This is because zinc supplements can stop some antibiotics from working properly.
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Can zinc sulfate cause problems?
Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with zinc sulfate. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.
Side-effects of zinc sulfate | What can I do if I experience this? |
Stomach pain or discomfort, indigestion, feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting) | Stick to simple meals - avoid rich or spicy foods |
Diarrhoea | Drink plenty of water to replace any lost fluids |
Headache | Drink plenty of water and ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller. If the headaches continue, let your doctor know |
Feeling tired or irritable | This should soon pass |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the tablets, please speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.
How to store zinc sulfate
Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
Store in the original container in a cool, dry place and away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
Important information about all medicines
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else might have taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Do not keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
Report side effects to a medicine or vaccine
If you experience side effects, you can report them online through the Yellow Card website.
Further reading and references
- Manufacturer's PIL, Solvazinc® Effervescent Tablets; Galen Limited, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated November 2021.
- Medicines Complete BNF 88th Edition; British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
Next review due: 21 Aug 2027
17 Aug 2024 | Latest version
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