Zinc is an important trace element of our body. Its presence is necessary for the normal functioning of many enzymes, for immunogenesis. It stimulates tissue regeneration, the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids, prevents damage to cell membranes, “quenches” the developed reactions of free radicals.
The active ingredient in some drugs is zinc sulfate. It can also be found in “Asparaginate” or “Zinc picolinate” preparations.
There are several dosage forms for its use: effervescent tablets, a solution for external use, dragees, eye drops.
Zinc sulfate is used for enteritis, psoriasis, liver cirrhosis, systemic collagenoses (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis), enterohepatic dermatitis, frequent colds, cerebral palsy. Locally (in the form of drops or solution) is used for vaginitis, urethritis, laryngitis, conjunctivitis. In recent studies, it was found: zinc sulfate can be used in the treatment of viral warts, since its use is safe and effective, and serious side effects do not develop.
Exactly considering what he does in the body, we can say the following. Zinc sulfate forms an integral part of more than 90 enzymes that regulate DNA synthesis and participate in metabolic processes. Zinc is important for the functioning of sex hormones and insulin, restricts mast cell histamine liberalization, thereby stabilizing cell membranes. It is necessary for the normal functioning of alkaline phosphatase, alcohol dehydrogenase, carboxypeptidases, as well as lymphoid tissue. In addition, zinc makes the body less susceptible to infections, accelerates wound healing, improves performance, protects hair from falling out.
Some categories of people need an increased intake of this substance. These include teenagers, pregnant, lactating, athletes, vegetarians. Inadequate intake or improper nutrition, a violation of its absorption can lead to the development of hypocincemia.
Zinc sulfate (its formula ZnSO4) is indicated for use in the following cases:
· Locally with inflammation of the larynx, urethra, conjunctiva.
· Inside to eliminate hypocinemia that occur with cirrhosis, enteritis, renal pathologies, enteropathic acrodermatitis, steatorrhea, helminthic invasions, psoriasis, burns, hypovitaminosis D.
· It is used as a prophylaxis for hypogonadism, frequent colds, pregnancy and lactation, cerebral palsy, systemic collagenoses, diabetes mellitus, alopecia areata, and glucocorticoids.
· In case of an overdose of this drug (develops when ingested large doses), the following reactions are possible: high fever, respiratory failure, lethargy, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance in the body, renal failure, impaired muscle function.
The use is contraindicated in the presence of autoimmune processes in the active phase in the body, especially in the presence of immune encephalitis, with severe lesions of the renal parenchyma, in acute renal failure. Use during pregnancy and lactation with caution, in the presence of a proven zinc deficiency.
Side effects appear only when taking this drug in large doses. Diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, renal failure, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, lethargy occur. However, when using this drug in the therapeutic range, complications are extremely rare.
Before using zinc preparations, be sure to consult a specialist!