Zinc

CAM (modulates glutamate, neuroprotective)

Anorexia
Insomnia (safe in elderly)

Depression (augmentation)

Features

Tolerable, Generic, Non-controlled, Bipolar-Safe, Natural, Weight-Free, Sexual-free, Non-sedating, Elderly-Safe

Dosing

Zinc 25-50 mg qd for anorexia, 25-30 mg qd for depression, 10-25 mg qhs for insomnia (often given with melatonin). Dose is based on elemental zinc in product, regardless of binding agent in the product.

Can prescribe zinc (and people with anorexia much more likely to take it if Rx).

Management

No side effects, but large amounts can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting.

EMR Text

Depression

Zinc use based on randomized controlled trials in depression (Donig A et al, Nutr Neurosci. 2022, 25(9):1785-1795). Off-label use and side effects discussed with patients.

Anorexia

Zinc use based on randomized controlled trials in anorexia (Birmingham CL et al, Int J Eat Disord. 1994;15(3):251-255). Off-label use and side effects discussed with patients.

Insomnia

Zinc use based on randomized controlled trials in insomnia (Rondanelli M et al, J Am Geriatr Soc. 2011;59(1):82-90). Off-label use and side effects discussed with patients.

Search Treatments