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The information provided in this document is intended solely for educational and professional reference purposes and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Clinical decisions must always be based on the approved prescribing information issued by relevant regulatory authorities and the professional judgment of qualified healthcare professionals.
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2. Summary
Sulfozinc® is an oral zinc supplement containing zinc sulphate, indicated primarily for the treatment and prevention of zinc deficiency and as an adjunct therapy in acute and persistent diarrhea, particularly in children. Zinc is an essential trace element involved in immune defense, enzymatic activity, growth, wound healing, and maintenance of intestinal mucosal integrity.
Sulfozinc® aligns with WHO and UNICEF recommendations for zinc supplementation in childhood diarrhea when used alongside oral rehydration salts (ORS).
3. Brand Name
Sulfozinc®
4. Category
- Zinc supplement
- Essential trace element replacement
- Antidiarrheal adjunct (nutritional)
5. Active Ingredient
Zinc Sulphate (as Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate)
6. Pharmaceutical Form & Strength
Powder for oral suspension (after reconstitution):
- 10 mg elemental zinc per 5 mL
Syrup:
- 10 mg elemental zinc per 5 mL
- 20 mg elemental zinc per 5 mL
Final volume after reconstitution: 80 mL
Composition (10 mg/5 mL formulation): Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate 27.437 mg (equivalent to 10 mg elemental zinc)
7. Manufacturer & Marketing Authorization Holder
Chemical Industries Development (CID) Giza, Arab Republic of Egypt
8. Mechanism of Action
Zinc acts as a structural and catalytic cofactor for more than 300 enzymes and transcription factors, including DNA and RNA polymerases. Its main actions include:
- Enhancement of intestinal epithelial repair
- Improvement of water and electrolyte absorption
- Modulation of immune responses (T-cell and neutrophil function)
- Support of protein synthesis, growth, and wound healing
In diarrhea, zinc shortens duration and severity and reduces recurrence by restoring mucosal integrity and immune defense.
9. Spectrum of Activity
Not applicable as an antimicrobial agent. Sulfozinc® provides nutritional and physiological support rather than direct pathogen suppression.
10. Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Approximately 20–30% of oral zinc is absorbed, mainly in the duodenum and jejunum. Absorption is reduced by phytates, calcium, iron, and tetracyclines.
- Distribution: Widely distributed; highest concentrations in muscle, bone, liver, and skin.
- Metabolism: Zinc is not metabolized.
- Excretion: Primarily fecal; minimal urinary excretion.
- Elimination control: Homeostasis is regulated mainly by intestinal absorption and excretion.
11. Indications
- Acute and persistent diarrhea in children (adjunct to ORS)
- Zinc deficiency states (dietary deficiency, malabsorption, excessive losses)
- Acrodermatitis enteropathica
Supportive therapy in selected cases of:
- Wilson’s disease (under specialist supervision)
- Acne vulgaris
- Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis
- Immunodeficiency states, including recurrent infections (e.g., Down syndrome)
Note: Strongest evidence exists for diarrhea management and zinc deficiency correction.
12. Administration
- Oral administration only
- Preferably taken with or after food to reduce gastrointestinal irritation
- Separate from interacting medications by at least 2–4 hours
13. Method of Preparation
- Add potable (boiled and cooled) water to the bottle up to the indicated mark
- Shake vigorously until fully reconstituted
- Shake well before each dose
14. Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to zinc or any excipients in the formulation
15. Warnings & Precautions
- Use with caution in renal impairment due to risk of accumulation
- Prolonged high-dose use may cause copper deficiency
- Use during pregnancy and lactation only when benefits outweigh risks
- Avoid exceeding recommended doses, especially in children
16. Drug Interactions
Zinc may reduce absorption of:
- Quinolones (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, norfloxacin, ofloxacin)
- Tetracyclines
- Oral iron preparations
- Penicillamine
- Trientine
Management: Separate administration by 2–4 hours.
17. Side Effects
Generally well tolerated.
Rare adverse effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
- Dyspepsia
- Gastric irritation
Usually minimized when taken with food.
18. Use in Special Populations
- Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed; nutritional doses considered safe
- Lactation: Compatible at recommended doses
- Pediatrics: Strongly recommended in childhood diarrhea (WHO/UNICEF)
- Elderly: Use with caution in renal impairment
- Renal impairment: Dose reduction may be necessary
19. Storage Conditions
- Store below 30°C
- Relative humidity below 70%
- Protect from moisture
- Keep out of reach of children
20. Additional Sections
WHO / UNICEF Recommendation
Zinc supplementation for 10–14 days is recommended in all children with acute diarrhea to reduce disease severity and prevent recurrence for up to 2–3 months.
Patient Counseling Points
- Complete the full course even if symptoms improve
- Do not repeat treatment without medical advice
- Follow physician and pharmacist instructions
21. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Sulfozinc® an antibiotic? No. It is a nutritional supplement.
Should it be used alone for diarrhea? No. It should always be used with ORS.
Can adults use Sulfozinc®? Yes, according to recommended dosing and clinical need.
Why continue for 10–14 days? To replenish zinc stores and reduce recurrence.
22. References
- World Health Organization (WHO) & UNICEF. Zinc supplementation in the management of diarrhea.
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. Zinc Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.
- British National Formulary (BNF): Zinc Sulphate Monograph.
- Martindale: The Complete Drug Reference.
- Chemical Industries Development (CID). Sulfozinc® Product Leaflet (historical reference).