Recommended Zinc Dosage for an 8-Year-Old Child Weighing 31kg
For an 8-year-old child weighing 31kg, the recommended zinc syrup dosage is 50 μg/kg/day, which equals 1.55 mg/day (not exceeding the maximum of 5 mg/day for routine supplementation). 1, 2
Dosage Calculation and Rationale
- According to Clinical Nutrition guidelines, children older than 12 months should receive zinc supplementation at a dose of 50 μg/kg/day up to a maximum of 5 mg/day for routine supplementation 1
- For this 8-year-old child weighing 31kg, the calculation is: 31kg × 50 μg/kg/day = 1,550 μg/day or 1.55 mg/day 2
- This dosage is well below the maximum recommended limit of 5 mg/day, making it appropriate and safe for routine supplementation 1
Administration Recommendations
- Zinc syrup should be administered as directed by the manufacturer 2
- For optimal absorption, zinc supplements should ideally be given between meals rather than with food 2
- Avoid administering zinc with foods high in phytates (found in grains, legumes), which can reduce absorption 2
Special Considerations
- If the child has diarrhea or increased gastrointestinal fluid losses, higher doses of zinc may be required 1, 2
- For acute diarrhea, lower doses (5-10 mg) have shown similar efficacy to the standard 20 mg dose with fewer side effects like vomiting 3
- In cases of zinc deficiency, therapeutic doses of 0.5-1 mg/kg per day may be given for 3-4 months 2
Clinical Importance and Monitoring
- Zinc is an essential nutrient involved in metabolism of energy, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids 1
- Zinc deficiency in children can lead to stunted growth, increased risk of infections, and characteristic skin rash 1
- Regular zinc supplementation may help prevent episodes of diarrhea and improve growth slightly in children 4
- For children on long-term zinc supplementation, monitor serum zinc levels and alkaline phosphatase periodically 1, 2