Usage
- Zinc Carnosine is primarily prescribed for the treatment of gastric ulcers and to promote gastrointestinal health. It may also be used to relieve mild gastric discomforts such as nausea, bloating, stomach upset, and heartburn. It can also support a healthy gastric microbial balance and protect the gastric mucosa.
- Pharmacological Classification: It acts as a mucosal protectant and has some antioxidant properties. It can be considered a nutritional supplement and in some countries is a prescribed medicine.
- Mechanism of Action: Zinc Carnosine stabilizes and protects the gastric and intestinal mucosal lining. It exerts antioxidant effects and enhances mucosal defense mechanisms, thereby promoting ulcer healing and reducing inflammation.
Alternate Names
- Polaprezinc
- Beta-alanyl-L-histidinato zinc
- N-(3-aminopropionyl)-L-histidinato zinc
- PepZin GI (brand name)
How It Works
- Pharmacodynamics: Zinc Carnosine adheres to the gastric mucosa, providing a protective barrier against damaging factors like stomach acid and Helicobacter pylori. Its antioxidant properties help reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair.
- Pharmacokinetics: It is administered orally. Upon ingestion, it slowly dissociates into zinc and L-carnosine in the gastrointestinal tract. Zinc absorption from zinc carnosine is relatively low, with most being excreted in feces. L-carnosine is further metabolized into L-histidine, which is used in protein synthesis. The prolonged presence of Zinc Carnosine in the gut contributes to its therapeutic effect.
- Mode of Action/Receptor Binding/Enzyme Inhibition/Neurotransmitter Modulation: Zinc Carnosine doesn’t have specific receptor binding or direct enzyme inhibition activity relevant to its gastroprotective effects. However, at the cellular level, its antioxidant action scavenges free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the gastric mucosa. The specific molecular details are not fully understood but relate to promoting natural protective mechanisms in the gastrointestinal tract without directly interfering with acid production. There are reports of interaction with and modulation of some neurotransmitters, but this is not related to its use as a treatment for ulcers.
- Elimination Pathways: Primarily fecal excretion for zinc; hepatic metabolism of L-carnosine to L-histidine.
Dosage
Standard Dosage
Adults:
- 75 mg twice daily, preferably with meals.
- Dosages may range from 100 mg to 150mg daily.
Children:
- Safety and efficacy in children under 12 years of age have not been established. Use only under the supervision of a healthcare professional if deemed necessary.
Special Cases:
- Elderly Patients: A lower dose of 100 mg daily might be recommended due to age-related physiological changes.
- Patients with Renal Impairment: Caution is advised. Dosage adjustments may be necessary depending on the degree of impairment.
- Patients with Hepatic Dysfunction: Caution is advised. Dosage adjustments may be necessary depending on the degree of impairment.
- Patients with Comorbid Conditions: Consideration of underlying conditions is important. Consult a healthcare professional.
Clinical Use Cases
- The primary clinical use case is for supporting gastrointestinal health, relieving gastric discomfort, and treating and preventing gastric ulcers. Data for use in other clinical settings is limited.
Dosage Adjustments:
- Based on patient tolerance and individual response; consideration of renal/hepatic function. Close monitoring for any adverse effects is advised, and dosage should be adjusted accordingly.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Stomach pain
Rare but Serious Side Effects:
- Decreased white blood cell count
- Sideroblastic anemia
- Digestive system disorders
Long-Term Effects:
- Limited data on long-term effects. Potential for copper deficiency with prolonged high doses of zinc.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR):
- Report any unusual symptoms immediately to a physician.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to zinc carnosine or its components.
- Pre-existing copper deficiency.
- Use with caution in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions
- Limited clinically significant drug interactions reported specifically for zinc carnosine. However, zinc can potentially interact with certain antibiotics, immunosuppressants, and iron chelators. There is a theoretical potential for interaction with blood pressure medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
- Safety not established. Consult with a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Drug Profile Summary
- Mechanism of Action: Protects and stabilizes the gastric mucosa; antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Side Effects: Nausea, indigestion, stomach pain (rarely, decreased white blood cell count or anemia).
- Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, copper deficiency.
- Drug Interactions: Potential with certain antibiotics, immunosuppressants, iron chelators, and blood pressure medications.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Safety not established; consult a healthcare professional.
- Dosage: 75 mg twice daily (adults); adjustments for elderly and those with hepatic or renal impairment.
- Monitoring Parameters: Gastrointestinal symptoms, complete blood count (if long-term use or at high doses).
Popular Combinations:
- Often used in combination with other gastroprotective agents or medications for H. pylori eradication therapy (e.g. proton pump inhibitors).
Precautions
- General Precautions: Rule out allergies, assess gastrointestinal function, and monitor for copper deficiency with long-term use.
- Specific Populations: Consult with a healthcare professional before use in pregnant or breastfeeding women and children.
- Lifestyle Considerations: Limited data on interaction with alcohol, smoking, or diet.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Zinc Carnosine?
A: The standard recommended dosage for adults is 75 mg twice daily, with meals. Elderly patients may benefit from a lower dose of 100 mg daily. Pediatric use should be under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Q2: What are the potential side effects of Zinc Carnosine?
A: Common side effects are generally mild and may include nausea, indigestion, and stomach pain. Rarely, more serious effects such as a decreased white blood cell count or anemia can occur.
Q3: Is Zinc Carnosine safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
A: Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Consult a healthcare professional before using Zinc Carnosine in these situations.
Q4: How does Zinc Carnosine work to protect the stomach?
A: Zinc Carnosine adheres to the stomach lining, providing a protective barrier against irritants. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which further aid in healing and protecting the gastric mucosa.
Q5: Are there any known drug interactions with Zinc Carnosine?
A: While limited specific interactions have been reported, zinc can interact with some medications, including certain antibiotics, immunosuppressants, and iron chelators. Concomitant use of blood pressure medications should be closely monitored.
Q6: How long should I take Zinc Carnosine?
A: The duration of treatment should be determined by your healthcare professional based on your specific condition and response to therapy.
Q7: Can Zinc Carnosine be used in children?
A: Safety and efficacy in children under 12 years of age have not been fully established. Use only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Q8: What should I do if I experience side effects while taking Zinc Carnosine?
A: Contact your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any unusual or bothersome side effects.
Q9: What is the difference between zinc carnosine and regular zinc supplements?
A: Zinc carnosine is a chelated compound of zinc and L-carnosine. This specific formulation enhances zinc’s delivery to the gastric mucosa and promotes its localized effects, making it more effective for gastrointestinal health compared to standard zinc supplements.
