Zinc: When to Take It & How to Track It

What is Zinc?

Zinc is a mineral the immune system needs, and it helps the body make proteins and DNA, heal wounds and sense taste and smell. Oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts and fortified cereals are common sources. Supplements are sold on their own, in multivitamins and as lozenges marketed for colds. Zinc can bind to certain antibiotics in the gut, which is why the gap between zinc and those medicines matters. Taking more than you need over a long period can also cause problems, so tracking exactly what you take, and when, is useful.

When to take Zinc: general timing information

• Zinc can reduce absorption of quinolone and tetracycline antibiotics. The NIH suggests taking the antibiotic at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, zinc. [1]

• Zinc can reduce the absorption and action of penicillamine, used for rheumatoid arthritis and Wilson disease. The NIH suggests spacing them at least 1 hour apart. [2]

• Some diuretics increase the amount of zinc lost in urine. [2]

• High intakes of zinc over a long time can lower copper levels and weaken immune function. [1]

How to set a Zinc reminder in Pillzy

1. 1

   Tap + in Pillzy and add "Zinc" with the form and dose on your label.

2. 2

   Pick the frequency on the label, and set an end point in your notes if it is a short course.

3. 3

   If you are on an antibiotic, schedule its reminders with the gap your pharmacist recommends from zinc.

4. 4

   Mark each dose taken or skipped so you can see exactly how much you took over the course.