Mineral supplement (Trace element)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Zinc sulfate is a mineral supplement that provides zinc, an essential nutrient your body needs to support your immune system, help wounds heal, and keep your body functioning properly.
Serves as a cofactor for over 300 metalloproteins and enzymes essential for immune function, protein synthesis, and wound healing; activates T-lymphocyte development and enhances intestinal barrier integrity to reduce pathogen translocation during diarrhoeal illness.
Diarrhoea in children (shortens how long it lasts), zinc deficiency, boosting immunity, poor appetite, slow wound healing, supporting recovery during infections
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for it.
Buy only from trusted pharmacies such as brands like Emzor Paediatric Zinc, Biozink, Avro-Z, and Alben which are NAFDAC-registered and widely available. For children with diarrhoea, always give zinc alongside ORS (oral rehydration salts) because zinc alone is not enough. Do not use zinc as a substitute for proper medical treatment if diarrhoea is severe or bloody; see a doctor immediately.
Zinc can reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics like ciprofloxacin and tetracycline, so take zinc at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after these antibiotics. Iron supplements and zinc can block each other's absorption, so take them at different times. Zinc may also reduce absorption of penicillamine (used for arthritis).
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Zinc with your other drugs?
Zinc is generally safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding at recommended doses, but consult your doctor before taking it to confirm the right dose for you.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat by avoiding storage near windows or in hot kitchens. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from humidity. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.