Description

Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate is a common salt of the essential trace element zinc. It is a source of elemental zinc and is used primarily as a dietary supplement and a medication. Zinc is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in numerous biological processes, including enzymatic function, protein synthesis, cell growth, and immune system function.

Indication

Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate is indicated for the treatment and prevention of zinc deficiency. Its main indications include:

• Zinc Deficiency: It is used to correct a zinc deficiency, which can result from inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption syndromes (e.g., Crohn’s disease, celiac disease), chronic alcoholism, or other conditions. Symptoms of zinc deficiency can include stunted growth, hair loss, diarrhea, immune dysfunction, and poor wound healing.
• Diarrhea: The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommend zinc supplementation as an essential component of the treatment for acute or persistent diarrhea in children. Zinc has been shown to reduce the duration, severity, and recurrence of diarrheal episodes.
• Acrodermatitis Enteropathica: This is a rare, inherited disorder that results in zinc deficiency and is treated with lifelong zinc supplementation.
• Wound Healing: Zinc is important for tissue repair and cell proliferation, so it is sometimes used as an adjunct in treating wounds, burns, and ulcers.

Mechanism of Action

The therapeutic and physiological mechanisms of Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate are directly related to the functions of the zinc ion in the body.

1. Enzymatic Cofactor: Zinc is a crucial cofactor for over 300 enzymes involved in major metabolic pathways, including DNA and RNA synthesis, protein synthesis, and carbohydrate metabolism. By providing the zinc ion, the supplement ensures that these enzymes can function correctly.
2. Cell Growth and Proliferation: Zinc is essential for cell division and growth. It plays a key role in DNA replication, transcription, and protein synthesis. Correcting a zinc deficiency restores these fundamental processes, which is why zinc is vital for growth in children and wound healing.

3. Immune System Function: Zinc is critical for the development and function of immune cells, including T-lymphocytes and natural killer cells. It helps to regulate the immune response and plays a role in reducing inflammation. This is a key reason for its effectiveness in treating diarrhea, where it helps to restore gut integrity and immune function.

4. Mechanism in Diarrhea: The specific mechanism of action in treating diarrhea is thought to be multifaceted:
   • Intestinal Repair: Zinc helps to regenerate the intestinal mucosa (lining), which is often damaged by diarrhea-causing pathogens.

• • Fluid and Electrolyte Absorption: It promotes the absorption of water and electrolytes, helping to correct dehydration.

• • Immune Response: It strengthens the local immune response in the gut, helping the body fight off the infection.

5. Antioxidant Effects: Zinc is a component of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD), which helps to protect cells from oxidative stress.