Which drugs can interact with zinc?

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in various bodily functions, including immune response, protein synthesis, and wound healing. However, certain medications can interfere with zinc metabolism and absorption, leading to potential deficiencies or reduced effectiveness of zinc.

Penicillamine, a chelating agent used primarily to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and Wilson's disease, can significantly interact with zinc. This drug can bind with zinc in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing the absorption of zinc and thereby increasing the risk of deficiency. Ethanol, on the other hand, can also affect zinc status as chronic alcohol consumption can lead to impaired zinc absorption and enhanced excretion.

This interaction underscores the importance of monitoring zinc levels in patients who are on penicillamine therapy or who consume significant amounts of ethanol, as both can lead to inadequate zinc availability in the body.

Other options may involve drugs that do not have the same degree of interaction with zinc or may not affect zinc absorption and status as significantly as penicillamine and ethanol do. It's crucial for healthcare providers to be aware of these interactions to effectively manage patient nutritional status, especially in older populations who may already be at risk for deficiencies.