# Zinc Supplement in Nigeria

Zinc Supplement has 46 active NAFDAC registrations in our October 2026 copy of the register, from 37 registration holders; 41 further listings have lapsed.

- Source: https://ogbogwu.com/drugs/zinc/
- Drug class: Essential mineral supplement (Vitamins & Supplements)
- Also known as: Zinc Sulfate, Zinc Gluconate
- Prescription required: no
- On the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines
- Last updated: October 2026

## Price in Nigeria

As of October 2026, Zinc Supplement tablets sell for about ₦241 per tablet online in Nigeria (packs ₦15,400–₦30,000) at three online pharmacies. The online price is roughly unchanged since July 2026. Open-market prices (e.g. Idumota, Ogbogwu) are often lower.

## What is Zinc Supplement?

Zinc is an essential trace mineral that plays a critical role in immune function, wound healing, cell division, and hundreds of enzymatic reactions throughout the body. In Nigeria, zinc supplementation has gained enormous importance due to its life-saving role in the management of childhood diarrhoeal diseases, which remain a leading cause of death among children under five in the country. The World Health Organisation and UNICEF jointly recommend zinc supplementation alongside oral rehydration salts (ORS) for every episode of childhood diarrhoea, and this protocol has been widely adopted across Nigerian health facilities — from the University College Hospital in Ibadan and Lagos University Teaching Hospital to community health posts in rural villages across Zamfara, Kebbi, and other states with high child mortality rates.

Nigeria bears a disproportionate burden of childhood diarrhoeal disease, with hundreds of thousands of cases occurring annually, particularly during the rainy season and in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. Zinc works by strengthening the intestinal lining, supporting immune function in the gut, and reducing the severity and duration of diarrhoea episodes. Studies conducted in Nigerian settings have confirmed that children who receive zinc alongside ORS recover faster and are less likely to have prolonged or recurrent diarrhoea in the following two to three months. Beyond childhood diarrhoea, zinc has gained popularity among Nigerian adults for immune support, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic when zinc and Vitamin C became the most sought-after supplements in pharmacies across Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and other major cities.

Zinc is listed on the WHO Essential Medicines List specifically for the management of diarrhoea in children, underscoring its global health significance. In Nigeria, zinc is available in several forms including dispersible tablets (which dissolve in water, making them easy to administer to young children), standard tablets for adults, and syrups. Popular brands include Emzor Zinc (a locally manufactured dispersible tablet widely used in paediatric settings), Nature's Field Zinc, Mason Zinc (imported from the USA), and Zincovit (a combination zinc and multivitamin product). Zinc supplements are available without a prescription from pharmacies, patent medicine stores, and primary health centres across all 36 states and the FCT, and are often distributed free of charge through government child health programmes and donor-funded interventions.

## What is Zinc Supplement used for?

- Treatment of acute childhood diarrhoea in combination with oral rehydration salts (ORS) — the WHO and Nigerian Federal Ministry of Health recommend 10-14 days of zinc supplementation for each episode of diarrhoea in children
- Immune system support and reduction of the frequency and severity of respiratory infections, colds, and other common illnesses
- Promotion of wound healing — zinc is essential for cell growth and tissue repair, making it valuable after injuries, burns, or surgical procedures
- Skin health support, including management of acne — zinc has anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit people with inflammatory skin conditions
- Nutritional supplementation for individuals at risk of zinc deficiency, including children with malnutrition, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses
- Supporting healthy growth and development in children — zinc deficiency can impair growth and is associated with stunting, which affects a significant proportion of Nigerian children

## Dosage

Always follow a doctor's or pharmacist's instructions; this is general reference information.

- Adults: For general supplementation: 15mg to 30mg of elemental zinc daily. For immune support: 20mg to 50mg daily during acute illness, not to exceed 40mg daily for long-term supplementation. Higher doses should only be taken under medical supervision and for short periods.
- Children: For treatment of diarrhoea (WHO/UNICEF recommendation): Children under 6 months: 10mg of elemental zinc daily for 10-14 days. Children 6 months to 5 years: 20mg of elemental zinc daily for 10-14 days. Dispersible tablets should be dissolved in a small amount of clean water or breast milk. For general supplementation in children: 5mg to 10mg daily depending on age.
- Elderly: Standard adult doses of 15mg to 30mg daily are appropriate for elderly individuals. Elderly people are at increased risk of zinc deficiency due to reduced dietary intake and absorption. Zinc supplementation may help support immune function in the elderly, who are more vulnerable to infections.

Zinc is best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach, but if it causes nausea, it can be taken with food. Avoid taking zinc at the same time as iron supplements or calcium, as these minerals can compete for absorption — space them at least 2 hours apart. For childhood diarrhoea, it is essential that zinc is given for the full 10-14 days even if the diarrhoea stops earlier, as this helps protect against future episodes. Long-term high-dose zinc supplementation (above 40mg daily) can interfere with copper absorption and cause copper deficiency.

## Side effects

Common: Nausea and stomach upset, especially when taken on an empty stomach; Metallic or unpleasant taste in the mouth; Vomiting in some children, particularly with the dispersible tablet form if taken without sufficient water.

Serious (seek medical help immediately): Copper deficiency from prolonged high-dose zinc supplementation (above 40mg daily for extended periods), causing anaemia, low white blood cell count, and neurological problems; Severe vomiting and abdominal pain from zinc overdose — particularly a risk in children who accidentally consume multiple tablets; Allergic reaction including rash, itching, or swelling (rare).

When to see a doctor: Seek medical attention if a child vomits repeatedly after taking zinc or shows signs of an allergic reaction. Consult a doctor if you have been taking high-dose zinc (above 40mg daily) for more than 2-3 months, as you may need to be checked for copper deficiency. For children with diarrhoea, seek immediate medical attention if the diarrhoea is bloody, if the child shows signs of severe dehydration (sunken eyes, no tears, very dry mouth, lethargy), or if diarrhoea persists beyond 14 days despite treatment.

## Warnings

Do not take if: Do not exceed recommended doses without medical supervision, as chronic high-dose zinc can deplete copper levels in the body; Use caution in individuals with kidney disease, as impaired zinc excretion can lead to accumulation; Do not use zinc supplements as a substitute for ORS in childhood diarrhoea — zinc must be used alongside ORS, not instead of it.

Interactions: Iron supplements — zinc and iron compete for absorption when taken simultaneously; space them at least 2 hours apart; Copper supplements — high-dose zinc reduces copper absorption and can cause copper deficiency over time; Tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin) — zinc reduces the absorption of these antibiotics; take at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after zinc; Penicillamine (used for Wilson's disease and rheumatoid arthritis) — zinc reduces its absorption; space doses by at least 2 hours; Diuretics (thiazide type) — can increase urinary zinc excretion, potentially increasing the need for supplementation.

Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Zinc is generally safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding at recommended doses (up to 15mg daily for general supplementation). Adequate zinc intake during pregnancy is important for foetal growth and development. Zinc deficiency during pregnancy has been associated with low birth weight and preterm delivery. Many Nigerian prenatal vitamins contain zinc alongside iron and folic acid. Zinc passes into breast milk, and breastfeeding mothers should ensure adequate intake to support both their own health and the infant's zinc status. Consult your antenatal healthcare provider for personalised advice on zinc supplementation during pregnancy.

## Brands in Nigeria

Well-known NAFDAC-registered brands: Zincovit (Apex Laboratories, made in India); Nature's Field Zinc (Nature's Field (Sylken), made in USA); Mason Zinc (Mason Natural, made in USA); Emzor Zinc (Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries, made in Nigeria).
Full searchable brand list: https://ogbogwu.com/drugs/zinc/brands/

## How to verify it is genuine

1. Ensure the product bears a valid NAFDAC registration number — all zinc supplements sold in Nigeria must be NAFDAC-registered
2. Verify the NAFDAC registration number through the NAFDAC website (www.nafdac.gov.ng) or the NAFDAC mobile app available on Android and iOS
3. Purchase zinc only from licensed pharmacies, accredited patent medicine stores, or approved health facilities — avoid buying from unlicensed street vendors or unverified online sellers
4. For dispersible zinc tablets used for childhood diarrhoea, check that the packaging clearly states the elemental zinc content (10mg or 20mg) and that the product is specifically formulated for paediatric use
5. Inspect the packaging for proper sealing, clear printing, batch number, and expiry date — discard products with damaged, faded, or suspicious packaging
6. If receiving zinc through a government health programme or NGO, verify that the supply came through official channels — community health workers should be able to show proof of approved sourcing

Verify any NAFDAC number free (no login): https://ogbogwu.com/nafdac-checker/

## FAQs

### How does zinc help with childhood diarrhoea?

Zinc helps treat childhood diarrhoea through multiple mechanisms. It strengthens the lining of the intestine, enhances the immune response in the gut, and improves the absorption of water and electrolytes. The WHO and UNICEF recommend that every child under 5 years with diarrhoea should receive zinc supplementation alongside ORS for 10-14 days. Clinical studies, including several conducted in Nigeria, have shown that zinc reduces the duration of diarrhoea by about 25%, reduces stool volume, and most importantly, reduces the risk of future diarrhoea episodes in the following 2-3 months. It is important to emphasise that zinc does not replace ORS — both must be given together. ORS replaces lost fluids and electrolytes, while zinc helps the body fight the infection and recover faster.

### Can zinc boost my immune system against COVID-19?

Zinc plays an important role in maintaining a healthy immune system and supporting the body's defence against infections in general. During the COVID-19 pandemic, zinc became one of the most popular supplements in Nigeria, with many people taking it alongside Vitamin C. While some early studies suggested that zinc might help reduce the severity or duration of respiratory infections, the evidence specifically for COVID-19 prevention or treatment is not conclusive. Zinc is not a cure or proven preventive measure for COVID-19. However, maintaining adequate zinc levels through a balanced diet or moderate supplementation (20-30mg daily) is a sensible part of overall immune health. Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect against COVID-19. Always consult a healthcare professional for guidance on immune health.

### Can I take zinc and Vitamin C together?

Yes, zinc and Vitamin C can be safely taken together. In fact, many Nigerians take this combination for immune support, and the two supplements complement each other well. Both play important roles in immune function, and combining them has become a popular wellness strategy, particularly during the harmattan season and rainy season when infections are more common. Many supplement brands even offer combined zinc and Vitamin C formulations. When taking them separately, you can take them at the same time — there are no significant interactions between zinc and Vitamin C. However, be mindful of the total dosages: do not exceed 40mg of zinc daily for long-term use and keep Vitamin C below 2000mg daily to avoid potential side effects.

## Sources

- NAFDAC Greenbook (official register of approved products in Nigeria)
- WHO Model List of Essential Medicines
- British National Formulary (BNF)
- Nigerian Standard Treatment Guidelines (Federal Ministry of Health)