Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ZINC ACETATE - ORAL

(zink AH-seh-tate)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Galzin

Uses

This medication is used to help control high levels of copper in the body (Wilson's Disease).

How To Use

Take by mouth, generally three times daily, as directed. Take this medication 1 hour before or 2 to 3 hours after food or beverages other than water. Swallow capsules whole; do not crush or open capsules. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking this medication unless told to do so by your doctor.

Side Effects

Stomach pain or nausea may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies. Limited data suggest that this medication may cause fetal harm. This drug should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while taking this drug is not recommended. Consult the doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: quinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin), tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include decrease in the amount of urine, increased thirst, blurred vision, or unconsciousness.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor for side effects and response to therapy. Keep all medical appointments.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).