Parenteral Manual

Zinc sulfate

Disclaimer: Official controlled document is the CHEO online copy. It is the responsibility of user to ensure that any paper copy version is the same as the online version before use.

Classification: 
Trace metal supplement
Original Date: 
August 2005
Revised Date: 
December 2019
Indications: 
  • Treatment or prevention of zinc deficiency                       
  • Intended for use as an additive to total parenteral nutrition solutions
Reconstitution and Stability: 
  • Available as a 5 mg/mL solution
  • Stable at room temperature                                  
  • Stable for 24 hours when diluted in TPN
Compatibility: 

- Additive/buretrol Compatible: TPN (amino acids/dextrose)

Administration: 

(For approved routes of administration by nursing personnel, refer to Policy for the Administration of Intravenous Medications.)

SC NO
IM NO
IV Direct NO
IV Intermittent Infusion NO
IV Continuous Infusion YES, intended for use as an additive to TPN
Dosage: 

(For neonatal dosages, refer to Neonatal IV Drug Manual.)

In terms of elemental zinc

  • <3 months:   300 mcg/kg/day
  • >3 months - <5 years:   100 mcg/kg/day   (maximum: 5 mg/day)
  • >5 years:  2.5-5 mg/day
Potential hazards of parenteral administration: 
  • Zinc overdose is possible, but unlikely if above dosing guidelines are followed
  • Symptoms of zinc overdose: nausea, vomiting, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, dizziness, abdominal pain
Notes: 
  • Zinc sulfate contains 23% elemental zinc
  • Monitor serum zinc (normal: 10-20 micromol/L)
  • Gross excess of zinc can interfere with copper absorption and metabolism                     
  • Do not give undiluted due to phlebitis, tissue irritation and potential increased renal loss of minerals from a bolus injection

- Signs and symptoms of zinc deficiency include:                                                  

Growth suppression, anorexia, abnormal taste perception, skin lesions, diarrhea, alopecia

The information contained on this website is provided for informational purposes only, as a guide to assist physicians, nurses and other healthcare providers in deciding on the appropriate care required for a particular patient. At all times, physicians, nurses and other healthcare providers must exercise their independent clinical judgment, based on their knowledge, training and experience, taking into account the specific facts and circumstances of each patient, when deciding on the appropriate course of investigation and/or treatment to recommend in a particular clinical situation.

CHEO has made every effort to ensure that the information contained on this website is as current and accurate as possible. However, changes can occur due to ongoing research and the constant influx of new information. Where possible, hospitals and healthcare practitioners should verify the information before acting on it.

Reliance on any information in this website is at the user's own risk. CHEO is not responsible or liable for any harm, loss or other consequences from the use or misuse of the information on this website.