SupplementEssential medicine
Zinc Sulfate
Dispersible tablet or syrup
Quick Summary
Zinc helps repair the gut lining and supports immunity.
Diarrhoea in children
Zinc deficiency
Medical Uses
Diarrhoea in children: Given for 10–14 days with ORS.
Zinc deficiency: As advised.
How it's taken
Dissolve the tablet in a little water or breast milk, once a day for the course advised.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you and how long to take it.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Or vomiting if taken on an empty stomach.
Metallic taste
Sometimes.
Tummy upset
Mild.
Interactions
Some antibiotics
Zinc can reduce absorption; separate doses.
Critical Warnings
Complete the course
Give for the full 10–14 days.
Long-term high doses
Can cause copper deficiency.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Zinc: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine