Zinc is a vital nutrient that supports the immune system, promotes proper wound healing and aids in the production of genetic materials, such as DNA and proteins, in the cells of the body. Adult women and men should ingest at least 8 mg or 11 mg of zinc each day, respectively, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. If you are unable to consume your daily recommended levels of zinc from your diet, your doctor may recommend treatment with zinc sulfate, a dietary supplement. You should be aware of the potential side effects of zinc sulfate before beginning treatment with this nutritional supplement.
Upset Stomach
After taking a dose of zinc sulfate, you may experience an upset stomach or nausea, Drugs.com warns. Zinc sulfate may irritate your digestive tract, especially if you take it on an empty stomach. Additional upset stomach side effects may include heartburn or vomiting, which may contribute to a temporary decrease in appetite.
Diarrhea
Treatment with zinc sulfate may cause diarrhea, KidsHealth reports. If you develop diarrhea, you may experience urgent, frequent bowel movements that produce watery or loose stools. Diarrhea may exacerbate upset stomach side effects, including nausea or abdominal cramping or discomfort.
Flu-like Symptoms
If you use zinc sulfate improperly or take too much of this dietary supplement, you may experience flu-like symptoms, MedlinePlus reports. Such side effects include fever, stomach pain, excessive fatigue, coughing or headache. Contact a doctor as soon as possible if you experience any of these flu-like symptoms, as these side effects may also be signs of alternate medical problems, such as an infection.
Hypersensitive Reaction
You should not take zinc sulfate if you are allergic or hypersensitive to this supplement or any of the inactive ingredients in this treatment. If you do, you are at risk of developing a severe hypersensitive reaction called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include oral or throat swelling, dizziness, breathing difficulties, pale skin, weakness or heart rate irregularities. Seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience any of these side effects after taking a dose of zinc sulfate.
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