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Zinc-220 description. Zinc supplements are used to prevent or treat zinc deficiency. The body needs zinc for normal growth and health. For patients who are unable to get enough zinc in their regular diet or who have a need for more zinc, zinc supplements may be necessary. They are generally taken by mouth but some patients may have to receive them by injection. Zinc supplements may be used for other conditions as determined by your health care professional. Lack of zinc may lead to poor night vision and wound-healing, a decrease in sense of taste and smell, a reduced ability to fight infections, and poor development of reproductive organs. Some conditions may increase your need for zinc. These include: Acrodermatitis enteropathica (a lack of absorption of zinc from the intestine) Alcoholism Burns Diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes) Down's syndrome Eating disorders Intestine diseases Infections (continuing or chronic) Kidney disease Liver disease Pancreas disease Sickle cell disease Skin disorders Stomach removal Stress (continuing) Thalassemia Trauma (prolonged) In addition, premature infants may need additional zinc. Increased need for zinc should be determined by your health care professional. Claims that zinc is effective in preventing vision loss in the elderly have not been proven. Zinc has not been proven effective in the treatment of porphyria. Injectable zinc is given by or under the supervision of a health care professional. Other forms of zinc are available without a prescription. Brand names: - Verazinc - Zinc 15 - Zinc Supplements - Zinc-220 - Zinca-Pak - Zincate |