MEDICAL INFORMATION: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before giving any supplement to a child, especially for treating diarrhea.
ZINC SYRUP® (PHARCO)
Summary
ZINC SYRUP, manufactured by PHARCO, is a dietary supplement containing the essential micronutrient Zinc. Zinc plays a vital role in countless bodily functions, including immune system support, cell growth and repair, and the function of numerous enzymes. This syrup is indicated for the prevention and treatment of zinc deficiency and is particularly important as an adjunctive therapy in the management of childhood diarrhea, where it has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of episodes.
Manufacturer
PHARCO Pharmaceuticals, Alexandria, Egypt.
Category & Active Ingredient
- Category: Mineral Supplement.
- Active Ingredient: Zinc (from Zinc Sulfate) - 10 mg per 5 ml.
Available Forms
ZINC SYRUP is available as a bottle containing 80 ml of syrup.
Mechanism of Action
Zinc is an essential trace element crucial for human health. Its functions include:
- Immune Function: Zinc is critical for the normal development and function of immune cells.
- Cell Growth & Repair: It is essential for DNA synthesis, making it vital for wound healing and for cells with high turnover rates like those in the gut lining.
- Gut Health: In the context of diarrhea, zinc helps to restore the integrity of the gut lining, improve the absorption of water and electrolytes, and boost the immune response to gut pathogens.
Indications for ZINC SYRUP®
- Treatment of Childhood Diarrhea: Used in conjunction with Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) to reduce the duration and severity of acute and persistent diarrhea.
- Prevention and Treatment of Zinc Deficiency.
- General Supplementation: To support normal growth and aid in tissue repair.
Dosage and Administration
Dosage should be determined by a physician. The following are the WHO-recommended doses for diarrhea treatment:
- Infants under 6 months: 10 mg of Zinc (one 5 ml spoonful) daily for 10-14 days.
- Children 6 months to 5 years: 20 mg of Zinc (two 5 ml spoonfuls) daily for 10-14 days.
It is important to complete the full 10-14 day course even if the diarrhea stops earlier to replenish the body's zinc stores.
Side Effects
ZINC SYRUP is generally safe at recommended doses. Side effects can include:
- Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain).
- A metallic taste in the mouth.
Contraindications
Do not use if there is a known hypersensitivity to any component of the syrup.
Warnings & Precautions
- Copper Deficiency: Prolonged use of high doses of zinc can interfere with copper absorption and may lead to copper deficiency. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration without medical advice.
- Renal Impairment: Use with caution in patients with kidney problems.
Drug & Food Interactions
The absorption of zinc can be reduced by certain substances. It's advisable to separate the administration of zinc syrup by at least 2 hours from:
- Tetracycline and Quinolone antibiotics.
- Penicillamine.
- Supplements containing high levels of iron or copper.
- Foods high in phytates, such as whole-grain breads, cereals, and legumes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is it important to give zinc for the full 14 days for diarrhea?
Diarrhea depletes the body's zinc levels. Completing the full 10-14 day course is crucial to fully replenish these stores, which helps strengthen the child's immune system and makes them less likely to get new episodes of diarrhea in the following months.
Should I give ZINC SYRUP with or without food?
Zinc can sometimes cause stomach upset. Giving it with a small amount of food can help, but try to avoid giving it at the same time as milk or meals high in fiber and phytates (like whole-grain cereals), which can decrease its absorption.
References
- World Health Organization (WHO): For guidelines on the treatment of diarrhea in children. WHO - The Treatment of Diarrhoea
- U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH): For comprehensive information on Zinc. NIH - Zinc Fact Sheet
- Product Information: Sourced from the internal leaflet provided by PHARCO.
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