Has your doctor prescribed you or someone in your family a medication called Zinc Acetate? It's normal for you to have a lot of questions about this medication. You may be wondering things like, "What does this do?", "How exactly do I use it?", "Are there any side effects?" Don't worry, we'll talk about it all clearly and simply today.
What is Zinc Acetate?
Simply put, zinc acetate is a medication used to treat a condition called Wilson disease. Wilson disease is a genetic condition in which the level of copper in our body increases unnecessarily.
Now look, what this medicine does is very simple. That is, it reduces the absorption of copper in the foods we eat into our bodies. When this absorption is reduced, the amount of extra copper accumulated in the body gradually decreases, and the symptoms are controlled.
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important to give your doctor a complete account of your health. Before starting this medicine, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- If you have an allergic reaction to zinc or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant, or expecting a baby soon.
- If you are a nursing mother.
Do not hide this information from your doctor. This information is essential to provide you with the most appropriate and safest treatment.
How to use the medicine correctly?
To get the most out of this medicine, it is very important to use it as directed.
- How to swallow: Take this medicine with a glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew the capsule. Swallow it whole.
- When to take: This should be taken on an empty stomach . That is, it is best to take it an hour before a meal or 2 to 3 hours after a meal. Try to drink it at the same time every day if possible.
- Stopping: Do not stop taking this medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
- For children: This medicine is sometimes prescribed for children, but it requires special precautions. So if you are giving this medicine to your child, talk to your doctor about it.
What to do if you overdose?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What if I forget to take my medicine?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose (for example, within two to three hours), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
Some medications may interfere with the effectiveness of zinc acetate when taken together. It is very important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (including vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal remedies).
| Type of medicine / substance | Examples |
|---|---|
| Iron supplements | Pills/capsules taken to increase iron levels in the body |
| Tetracycline antibiotics | doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline |
| Quinolone antibiotics | ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin |
| Other medications | Baloxavir, Edetate calcium (EDTA), Eltrombopag |
Possible side effects while taking the medicine
Like any medicine, zinc acetate can cause side effects in some people. Most of these are not serious, but there are some things to be aware of.
| Type of side effect | What to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. If any of these occur, seek medical advice immediately. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Digestive system problems | Heartburn, nausea, upset stomach, vomiting. If these persist or bother you, tell your doctor. |
Other things to be careful about while taking the medicine
- Medical tests: Your doctor will need to see you regularly to monitor the progress of your treatment. He or she may also order blood work. Don't skip these tests.
- Symptoms: If your symptoms don't improve, or if they seem to be getting worse, tell your doctor.
How do you store and dispose of the medicine?
- Storage: Keep medicine out of the reach of children and pets . It is best to store it at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Do not use expired medicine.
- Disposal: Ask your doctor about the best way to dispose of unused or expired medications. Some medications should not be thrown in the trash. If it is safe to throw them in the trash, remove the capsules from the container, mix them with something like used coffee grounds, soil, or cat litter, and place them in a tightly sealed bag and throw them in the trash.
Take-Home Message
- Always take Zinc Acetate capsules on an empty stomach, i.e. one hour before or 2-3 hours after a meal.
- Swallow the capsule whole. Do not break, crush, or chew it.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms such as facial swelling and skin rashes, seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Never share it with others.
- Always follow your doctor's instructions and recommendations exactly.
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