The coronavirus pandemic made us all realize how important it is to keep our immune system healthy. One of the most important causes of disorders immunity there may be a zinc deficiency. This is a good opportunity to learn about one of the most important micronutrients responsible for the proper regulation of immunity.
In the world, zinc shortages depend mainly on the country and region. It is estimated that up to 20% -30% of the world’s population may suffer from zinc deficiency in the body. In poor, developing countries, this percentage is very high – making it one of the leading causes of mortality among malnourished children. In the case of developed countries, zinc deficiency most often affects people with a poor and improperly balanced diet.
A particular epidemiological problem is the diagnosis of zinc deficiency in a patient. Unlike other ions, such as calcium or iron, low levels of zinc in the body do not lead to specific symptoms. Skin problems (eczema, acne, weakening of the structure of hair and nails), changes in the sense of taste, smell, and even eyesight, diarrhea, loss of appetite, cognitive impairment, growth and development disorders in children, increased risk of pregnancy loss, susceptibility to infections are just examples of the many symptoms of zinc deficiency. In addition, the diagnosis is made difficult by the lack of a reliable analytical method allowing the determination of this element in the body. At present, the determination of zinc in the blood, urine and hair is used, and neither of these methods will give unequivocal information about the actual level of zinc in the body. This is due to the fact that zinc is very “mobile” in the body and its content in the blood can change depending on various factors, such as the inflammatory process or even the time of day. This is due to the migration of zinc from the cells into the bloodstream and vice versa. The blood zinc reference value, which may indicate a deficiency, is <70 µg / dL (<10,7 µmol / L). Ultimately, however, it is the doctor who, based on the test results and the additional interview, is able to make a reliable diagnosis of zinc deficiency. If a zinc deficiency is detected in a patient, a drug containing a zinc salt, such as Zincas or Zincas Forte, is most often added to the therapy.
The decision to treat zinc deficiency is crucial due to the wide range of functions of this element in the body. In addition to its basic influence on the processes of metabolism, regeneration and development, zinc plays an essential role in the strength of the immune response. Its participation is indicated, inter alia, in relieving inflammatory processes, accelerating the multiplication and maturation of lymphocytes, the production of antibodies. People with zinc deficiency have a much greater chance of catching an infection, with a stronger course and a longer duration of it. In the case of extreme zinc deficiency, a so-called “cytokine storm” can occur, where the inflammatory process can cause significant changes in tissues (eg in the lung tissue). However, after an infection, the body takes longer to recover.
In the face of the coronavirus pandemic, scientific literature more and more often mentions the role of zinc in the regulation of inflammatory processes, supporting the body’s immunity, and the antiviral effect of zinc shown in in vitro models. On the other hand, in clinical conditions, the relationship between a strong deficiency of zinc in the blood (<50 µg / dl of zinc in the blood) and mortality in the course of COVID-19 was demonstrated.
Zinc is an element once known primarily for its influence on metabolic processes, skin, fertility, and support in the course of diabetes. Currently, its roles in the human body are more and more recognized, especially in terms of the body’s immunity.
STRONG ZINC
CHARACTER
Pills.
COMPOSITION
1 tablet contains 27 mg of zinc ions in the form of 150 mg of zinc hydrogen aspartate dihydrate (Zinci hydroaspartas). Excipients: potato starch, sucrose, talc, magnesium stearate, dextrin, sodium carboxymethyl starch (type C), microcrystalline cellulose.
INTENDED USE
Zinc deficiency, if this cannot be corrected by a varied diet.
DOSAGE AND METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION
Zincas Forte is intended for adults and adolescents over 15 years of age.
Dosage. Adults and adolescents over 15 years of age: 1 tablet a day. Oral use. Should be taken after a meal with water. Zincas Forte should not be taken for more than 30 days without consulting a doctor.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients (potato starch, sucrose, talc, magnesium stearate, dextrin, sodium carboxymethyl starch type C, microcrystalline cellulose). It should not be used in renal failure.
ZINCAS
CHARACTER
Pills.
COMPOSITION
1 tablet contains 5,5 mg of zinc ions in the form of 31 mg of zinc hydrogen aspartate dihydrate (Zinci hydroaspartas). Excipient: potato starch, sucrose, talc, magnesium stearate, dextrin, sodium carboxymethyl starch (type C), microcrystalline cellulose, quinoline yellow (E 104)
INTENDED USE
Zinc deficiency.
DOSAGE AND METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION
Children up to 5 years of age: 1 tablet once a day, from 1 to 5 years: 15 tablet twice a day.
Adults and adolescents over 15 years of age: 1 tablet 3 times a day.
Oral use. It is recommended to take it after a meal with water. Young children must not be given the tablets whole
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Hypersensitivity to zinc hydrogen aspartate dihydrate or to any of the excipients (potato starch, sucrose, talc, magnesium stearate, dextrin, sodium carboxymethyl starch type C, microcrystalline cellulose, quinoline yellow (E 104)). It should not be used in renal failure.
ENTITY RESPONSIBLE
Zakład Chemiczno-Farmaceutyczny Farmapol Sp. z o. o
ul. St. Wojciech 29, 61-749 Poznań
WARNING
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.
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