ZINC SULPHATE

Reduces severity, duration and reoccurrence of diarrhoea

Dosage Forms

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Tablet

30 mg

Effervescent tablet

20 mg

Eye drops

0.20%

Uses

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  • Diarrhoea in children

Dose and Duration

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Diarrhoea in children

Child 6 months–5 years: 20 mg once daily for 10–14 days.

Child < 6 months: 10 mg once daily for 10–14 days.

Side Effects

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  • Stomach upset
  • Weakness, headache
  • Irritability

Interactions

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  • Ferrous salts (reduced absorption)

Patient Instructions

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  • Place ½ or 1 tablet on a teaspoon, then add a little drinking water, ORS, or breast milk. Dissolve and give to child.
  • Older children may chew the tablet and swallow with or without drinking water.
  • If the child vomits within 30 minutes of taking the medicine, give another dose.
  • Give at least 2 hours apart from iron medicines.

⚠️ Caution

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  • Zinc sulphate is not a replacement for ORS.
  • Not recommended in malnourished children taking therapeutic food as it already contains the right amount of zinc.