Zinc sulfate is a drug used to replenish low levels of zinc or prevent zinc deficiency, or to test for zinc deficiency. Zinc sulfate is the inorganic compound with the formula ZnSO4 and historically known as "white vitriol".
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed
Zinc inhibits cAMP-induced, chloride-dependent fluid secretion by inhibiting basolateral potassium (K) channels, in in-vitro studies with rat ileum. This study has also shown the specificity of Zn to cAMP-activated K channels, because zinc did not block the calcium (Ca)-mediated K channels. As this study was not performed in Zn-deficient animals, it provides evidence that Zn is probably effective in the absence of Zn deficiency. Zinc also improves the absorption of water and electrolytes, improves regeneration of the intestinal epithelium, increases the levels of brush border enzymes, and enhances the immune response, allowing for a better clearance of the pathogens.
- Primary indication
- This medication is a mineral used to treat or prevent low levels of zinc alone and together with oral rehydration therapy (ORT).Curator reviewed · 5 structured indications
- Formula / weight
- O4SZn · 161.472 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 1996
- Also known as
- Zinc sulphate
- Brand names
Resolves to
NWONKYPBYAMBJT-UHFFFAOYSA-LSMILES[Zn++].[O-]S([O-])(=O)=OWhat you can answer from here — as of September 23, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Zinc sulfate, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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