What is zinc sulfate tablets 20 mg used for Primary Clinical Uses

• Management of Diarrhea: In pediatric medicine, the WHO and UNICEF recommend 20 mg of zinc daily for 10–14 days for children with acute diarrhea. It helps reduce the duration and severity of the episode and prevents future occurrences for up to 3 months.

• Immune System Support: Zinc is essential for T-lymphocyte activation. It is often prescribed to bolster the immune response during chronic infections or for patients with impaired wound healing.

• Wilson’s Disease: It is used as maintenance therapy to block the absorption of copper from the diet in patients with Wilson’s disease.

  Acrodermatitis Enteropathica: A rare genetic disorder of zinc absorption that requires lifelong zinc supplementation.

• Mechanism of Action

Zinc acts as a cofactor for more than 300 enzymes in the body. It plays a structural role in “zinc fingers” that stabilize proteins and is vital for DNA synthesis and cell division. In the gut, it regulates fluid transport and mucosal integrity, which is why it is so effective against diarrhea diseases.

The Manufacturer’s Perspective: Formulation & Export

For a manufacturing firm, Zinc Sulphate 20 mg tablets (often formulated as dispersible tablets for pediatric use) are high-volume essential medicines.

• Dispersibility: Ensuring the tablet dissolves in less than 60 seconds in a teaspoon of water or breast milk is a key WHO-GMP quality parameter for pediatric versions.

• Taste Masking: Since Zinc Sulfate has a strong metallic and bitter taste, advanced flavoring and sweetening agents are required to ensure patient compliance.

• Global Demand: These tablets are a staple for international health tenders and NGOs focusing on child mortality and malnutrition.