Zinc is an over-the-counter medication used as a dietary supplement for people who do not get enough zinc from food. This drug is also used to make cold symptoms less severe or shorter in duration. These symptoms include sore throat, cough, sneezing, hoarse voice, or stuffy nose. The active ingredient in Zinc is Zinc gluconate. Zinc gluconate belongs to a class of drugs called mineral supplements. It works by boosting the immune system to ease cold and flu symptoms.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Zinc Gluconate from Canada manufactured by Jamieson in the strength of 50 mg tablets. There is no generic version of this drug.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Zinc. The most common side effects of Zinc may include the following:
• Diarrhea;
• Dry mouth;
• Stomach pain;
• Unpleasant taste in your mouth
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Signs of an allergic reaction, including breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of your face, lips, or throat
These are not all of the side effects of Zinc. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Zinc if you are allergic to Zinc gluconate or any ingredient in Zinc. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have malabsorption
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Zinc and other medicines, including antibiotics, warfarin, coumadin, ciprofloxacin, levodopa, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is unknown if Zinc will harm an unborn baby. Zinc should only be used in pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is not known if Zinc gluconate passes into breast milk or if it may affect a nursing infant. Zinc is a natural component in breast milk. You may need to take Zinc when breastfeeding to achieve a recommended daily intake. Use Zinc precisely as prescribed by your doctor. Zinc gluconate is available as lozenge tablets. Take the tablet with food if it upsets your stomach. Do not swallow a Zinc lozenge whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth completely. Avoid eating or drinking anything for 15 minutes after dissolving the zinc lozenge in your mouth. Do not use more than 6 lozenges per day. Start taking Zinc gluconate as soon as possible after cold symptoms appear. Call your doctor if your cold symptoms do not improve after 7 days. Store at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture.
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