From the Guidelines
The recommended dose of zinc for treating zinc deficiency is 0.5-1 mg/kg per day of elemental zinc, given orally for 3-4 months, as stated in the most recent guideline from 2022 1. This dose is specifically recommended for acquired zinc deficiency, and it is essential to use organic compounds such as zinc histidinate, zinc gluconate, and zinc orotate, which show better tolerability compared to inorganic zinc sulfate and zinc chloride. Some key points to consider when treating zinc deficiency include:
- The dose may vary depending on the individual's condition, such as patients with major burns >20% BSA, who require 30-35 mg/day IV for 2-3 weeks 1.
- For patients with gastrointestinal losses, IV doses up to 12 mg per day can be used to maintain zinc status 1.
- In cases of acrodermatitis enteropathica, a life-long oral intake of 3 mg/kg per day of elemental zinc may be necessary, with dosage adjustments based on plasma or serum zinc levels 1. It is crucial to monitor zinc levels and adjust the dose accordingly to avoid excessive supplementation, which can lead to adverse effects such as copper deficiency. The choice of zinc supplement is also important, with organic compounds generally being better tolerated than inorganic forms. Overall, the goal of zinc supplementation is to replenish zinc stores and support essential bodily functions, such as immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.
From the FDA Drug Label
Directions adults and children 12 years and over for best results, begin treatment at start of symptoms (within 24-48 hours of onset) repeat every 2 - 4 hours as needed until all symptoms subside completely dissolve a COLD-EEZE® lozenge in mouth (do not chew) recommended daily dosage is 6 lozenges for adults and 4 lozenges for ages 12-17 Active ingredient (per lozenge) Zincum Gluconicum 2x (13.3mg)
The recommended dose of zinc for treating zinc deficiency is not explicitly stated in the provided drug labels for the purpose of treating zinc deficiency. However, for the given context, the recommended daily dosage is 6 lozenges for adults and 4 lozenges for ages 12-17, with each lozenge containing 13.3mg of zinc 2 2.
- Adults: 6 lozenges per day, containing a total of 79.8mg of zinc per day
- Ages 12-17: 4 lozenges per day, containing a total of 53.2mg of zinc per day
From the Research
Recommended Dose of Zinc for Treating Zinc Deficiency
- The recommended daily allowance for adults is 15 mg zinc 3.
- Studies have shown that zinc supplements can be used to treat zinc deficiency, but the optimal dose is not well established.
- One study found that increases in aqueous zinc doses >20 mg result in relatively small and progressively diminishing increases in absorbed zinc (AZ) postabsorptively in healthy adults 4.
- Another study compared the effects of moderately high doses of zinc gluconate or zinc glycinate on plasma zinc and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase activities in young adult women, and found that 60 mg Zn/day of zinc glycinate effectively changed zinc status better than zinc gluconate 5.
- The pharmacokinetics of zinc from zinc gluconate have been compared with those of zinc oxide in healthy men, and found that zinc absorption in humans could be improved by zinc complexation with gluconate 6.
Zinc Deficiency Treatment
- Zinc deficiency can be treated with zinc supplements, but the dose and form of zinc used can affect the treatment outcome.
- Zinc gluconate and zinc glycinate are two common forms of zinc supplements used to treat zinc deficiency.
- The choice of zinc supplement and dose should be based on individual needs and health status, and should be guided by a healthcare professional.
Important Considerations
- Excessive zinc intake can cause toxicity symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain 3, 7.
- High doses of zinc can also interfere with the utilization of copper and iron, and adversely affect HDL cholesterol concentrations 7.
- Individuals using zinc supplements should be aware of the possible complications attendant to their use and monitor their zinc status and overall health closely 7.