Zinc Sulphate (Burns Wound Healing)

How it works

Zinc is an essential cofactor for numerous metalloenzymes involved in protein and nucleic acid synthesis, epithelial repair and immune function, and replacing burn-related deficiency restores these healing-related processes.

Prescribing in practice

• Supplementation should correct documented or anticipated deficiency rather than be given in excess, as prolonged high-dose zinc induces copper deficiency and can cause anaemia and neurological effects.
• Oral zinc reduces the absorption of certain drugs such as some antibiotics, so dosing should be separated in time.
• Gastrointestinal upset is common and is reduced by giving the supplement with food.

Monitoring

Monitor wound healing and, with prolonged supplementation, consider checking zinc and copper status to avoid inducing copper deficiency.

Counselling the patient

• Zinc supports healing because major burns lose a lot of it through the wounds.
• Take it with food to reduce stomach upset and separate it from certain other medicines.
• Do not take extra high doses long term without advice, as this can cause other deficiencies.

Evidence & guidelines

Micronutrient including zinc supplementation is recommended in major burns nutrition guidance to offset exudative trace-element losses.