Zinc Gluconate Side Effects
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 28, 2024.
Applies to zinc gluconate: oral lozenge, oral tablet.
Important warnings
This medicine can cause some serious health issues
Follow all directions on the label and package.
Use exactly as directed.
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction while taking zinc gluconate: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Less serious side effects of zinc gluconate may include:
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dry mouth, altered sense of taste; or
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an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
See also:
For healthcare professionals
Applies to zinc gluconate: compounding powder, oral lozenge, oral tablet, oral tablet chewable, oral tablet dispersible.
Endocrine adverse events
Endocrine side effects have included the reduction of high density lipoprotein (HDL) in males.[Ref]
Due to an accompanying decrease in low density lipoproteins (LDL), the LDL/HDL ratio remains relatively unchanged and little risk is assumed in terms of coronary heart disease. Triglyceride levels have not been shown to be affected.[Ref]
Gastrointestinal
Gastrointestinal side effects have included an unpleasant taste (80%), nausea (20%), mouth irritation (24%), dry mouth (12%), gastrointestinal upset (10%), distortion of taste, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.[Ref]
Gastrointestinal irritation appears to be dose-related.[Ref]
Nervous system
Nervous system side effects have rarely included dizziness and headache.[Ref]
References
1. (2001) "Product Information. Galzin (zinc acetate)." Teva Pharmaceuticals USA
2. Mossad SB, Macknin ML, Medendorp SV, Mason P (1996) "Zinc gluconate lozenges for treating the common cold. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study." Ann Intern Med, 125, p. 81-8
3. Eby GA, Davis DR, Halcomb WW (1984) "Reduction in duration of common colds by zinc gluconate lozenges in a double-blind study." Antimicrob Agents Chemother, 25, p. 20-4
4. Al-Nakib W, Higgins PG, Barrow I, Batstone G, Tyrrell DA (1987) "Prophylaxis and treatment of rhinovirus colds with zinc gluconate lozenges." J Antimicrob Chemother, 20, p. 893-901
5. Godfrey JC, Conant Sloane B, Smith DS, Turco JH, Mercer N, Godfrey NJ (1992) "Zinc gluconate and the common cold: a controlled clinical study." J Int Med Res, 20, p. 234-46
6. Macknin ML, Piedmonte M, Calendine C, Janosky J, Wald E (1998) "Zinc gluconate lozenges for treating the common cold in children: a randomized controlled trial [see comments." JAMA, 279, p. 1962-7
Frequently asked questions
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Further information
Zinc gluconate side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.
