How long does nausea from zinc last
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Duration of Nausea from Zinc Supplementation
Introduction to Zinc-Induced Nausea
Zinc is a commonly used supplement for various health benefits, including immune support and treatment of common colds. However, one of the side effects frequently reported is nausea. Understanding the duration and intensity of this side effect is crucial for users and healthcare providers.
Incidence and Duration of Nausea from Zinc Lozenges
In a study evaluating the effects of zinc acetate lozenges on upper respiratory tract infections, it was found that six users of zinc reported nausea, whereas no placebo users did. This suggests that nausea is a notable side effect of zinc lozenges. However, the study did not specify the exact duration of nausea experienced by the participants.
Acute Nausea from Zinc Overdose
A case report involving a 17-year-old male who ingested a large amount of zinc gluconate (570 mg elemental zinc) provides insight into the acute effects of zinc overdose. The individual experienced severe nausea and vomiting within 30 minutes of ingestion, but these symptoms did not persist beyond the initial episode. This indicates that while acute nausea from a high dose of zinc can be severe, it is typically short-lived.
Nausea from Zinc Sulphate in Children
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of zinc sulphate tablets in children with acute diarrhea. The study found that zinc treatment increased the risk of vomiting, with the median time to vomiting being 9.6 minutes post-ingestion. Importantly, 91.2% of the vomiting episodes were limited to a single occurrence within the first 60 minutes. This suggests that nausea and vomiting induced by zinc sulphate are generally transient and resolve quickly.
Nausea in Healthy Volunteers
In a study involving healthy volunteers taking 50 mg of elemental zinc three times a day, 84% of women and 18% of men reported symptoms including nausea. Some participants discontinued the trial due to gastric irritation. While the study did not provide specific durations for nausea, the high incidence of gastric discomfort suggests that nausea can be a persistent issue during the supplementation period.
Conclusion
Nausea induced by zinc supplementation can vary in duration and intensity depending on the form and dosage of zinc. Acute nausea from high doses tends to be severe but short-lived, typically resolving within an hour. In contrast, regular supplementation can cause persistent nausea, particularly in lower-weight individuals and women. For most users, nausea from zinc is a transient side effect that occurs shortly after ingestion and does not last long. Understanding these patterns can help in managing and mitigating the side effects of zinc supplementation.
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