Zinc: interactions

Some medicines and nutrients alter zinc absorption or are affected by zinc. Good dose scheduling usually prevents problems.

Medicines involved

• Quinolone/tetracycline antibiotics: zinc reduces absorption — separate by 2–4 h
• Penicillamine: copper chelator; potential interference — seek medical advice for exact spacing
• Diuretics: may increase urinary zinc losses; individualize care

Nutrients and supplements

• Iron/copper: absorption competition — take at different times; monitor copper if on prolonged zinc (copper deficiency risk)
• Phytates (unsoaked whole grains): reduce absorption; prefer soaking/sourdough

How to organize intake (memo)

• Take zinc with a meal for tolerance
• Keep zinc away from quinolones/tetracyclines: 2–4 h interval
• Separate zinc and iron/copper (e.g., morning/evening)
• If multiple minerals are needed, stagger times and prefer moderate doses over a single large amount

Example schedules (common cases)

• Morning quinolone → zinc at lunch or dinner (≥2–4 h later)
• Evening tetracycline → zinc at breakfast
• Morning iron course → zinc in the evening; add copper at a distance if prescribed

Mini‑FAQ

Can I take zinc and a multivitamin together?
Possible, but if it contains multiple minerals (iron/copper), separate for best absorption.

What if I took zinc and an antibiotic together?
Not a disaster once, but for antibiotic efficacy, respect the 2–4 h spacing thereafter.

Is fasting better for zinc absorption?
Sometimes, but tolerance is often better with food; prioritize consistency.

Sources

• NIH ODS – Zinc (interactions)