Zinc acetate is a form of zinc supplement that is easily absorbed by your body. While it is important to get enough zinc, supplements can cause adverse side effects, and taking too many can have serious repercussions on your health. Talk to your doctor before you begin taking more zinc in any form, and let her know if you develop any symptoms from consuming the supplement, including those that may indicate an overdose.
Definition and Recommended Intake
Zinc is a trace mineral that your body needs to heal wounds, keep your immune system functioning and ensure that you grow and develop properly. If you become deficient in zinc, you may develop symptoms such as a loss of appetite, poor growth, skin problems, hair loss and night blindness. Men need 11 mg of this mineral a day, and women need 8 mg, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. You can get zinc from foods like red meat, fish, cheese, mushrooms and tahini. However, your body absorbs only 20 percent to 40 percent of the zinc found in food, and if you are at risk for a deficiency, your doctor may recommend that you take a supplement like zinc acetate.
Side Effects and Overdose
Zinc acetate, as well as the other forms of supplemental zinc, has some common side effects. It may upset your stomach, particularly if you take it without food. It can also cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramping, and it can produce a metallic taste in your mouth or result in taste distortion. The tolerable upper limit of zinc is 40 mg a day, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, and you should talk to your doctor before taking more than this. Consuming high doses of zinc acetate can lead to dizziness, headaches, drowsiness, sweating, hallucinations and a loss of muscle coordination.
Other Risks
There is a strong link between zinc and copper. Taking large amounts of zinc can reduce the amount of copper your body is able to absorb, leading to a copper deficiency and even anemia. For this reason, your doctor may have you take a copper supplement along with your zinc acetate. A high intake of zinc may also compromise your immune system and even increase your cholesterol, and even moderate amounts can interact with your medications, such as antibiotics, diuretics and those used to treat blood pressure.
Additional Considerations
Always tell your doctor about all of your medications and conditions before you begin taking new supplements. If zinc acetate irritates your stomach, ask about switching to another form of supplemental zinc or lowering your dosage. Seek medical attention if you develop symptoms of a zinc overdose or any side effects from taking zinc acetate that concern you.
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