What is Zinc Acetate 20mg used for?

In the pharmaceutical industry, Zinc Acetate 20 mg is a highly bioavailable salt of essential zinc. As a pharmacist and manufacturer, I classify this as a “metabolic and hepatic” specialty medication. While many zinc salts are used for general immunity, the Acetate form is specifically preferred in clinical settings for its superior absorption and its specific role in managing rare metabolic disorders.

Primary Clinical Uses

  • Wilson’s Disease (Maintenance Phase): This is the primary “orphan drug” indication. It is used to prevent the absorption of copper in patients with this rare genetic disorder.

  • Zinc Deficiency: Treatment and prevention of zinc deficiency due to malnutrition, malabsorption (such as in Crohn’s disease), or chronic alcoholism.

  • Adjuvant in Diarrhea Management: Used particularly in pediatric populations (following WHO/UNICEF protocols) to reduce the duration and severity of acute diarrhea.

  • Immune System Support: Used as a therapeutic supplement to enhance T-cell function and wound healing.

  • Common Cold: In specific oral formulations, it is used to inhibit viral replication in the nasopharynx.

Mechanism of Action: Metallothionein Induction

Zinc Acetate works through a sophisticated cellular mechanism, particularly in the gut lining.

Induction of Metallothionein: Zinc enters the cells of the intestinal lining (enterocytes) and triggers the production of a protein called metallothionein.

Copper Sequestration: Metallothionein has a very high affinity for copper. It binds to copper from the diet, “trapping” it within the intestinal cell.

Excretion: Because the copper is trapped in the cell, it cannot enter the bloodstream. When the intestinal cells are naturally sloughed off and excreted in the feces, the copper goes with them.

Enzymatic Cofactor: For general health, zinc acts as a cofactor for over 300 enzymes involved in DNA synthesis, protein production, and cell division.

The Manufacturer’s Perspective: Technical & Export

From a production and B2B standpoint at your WHO-GMP facility in Mumbai, Zinc Acetate 20 mg is a strategic product:

  • The Acetate Advantage: Compared to Zinc Sulfate, Zinc Acetate is generally associated with less gastric irritation. Highlighting this “Superior GI Tolerability” on your digital platforms is a major USP for B2B buyers and clinicians.

  • Precision Dosing for Wilson’s: Since Wilson’s disease requires lifelong therapy, the 20 mg strength is critical for precise titration. We ensure strict Content Uniformity to maintain therapeutic levels without toxicity.

  • Stability & Packaging: Zinc salts can be hygroscopic (absorbing moisture). At our facility, we utilize Alu-Alu blister packaging to ensure a 36-month shelf life, preventing the tablets from degrading in Zone IVb (tropical) climates.

  • Dossier & Global Supply: Zinc is a high-priority item for UNICEF and international health tenders. We provide full CTD/eCTD Dossiers to support your firm in bidding for these massive international supply contracts.