5/13/2025
Last update
5/13/2025
Reviewed By
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 7 Researches
6.6
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 12 Reviews
7.4
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Vegetarian Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Zinc (as OptiZinc® zinc monomethionine, zinc citrate)
50 mg
455%
Top Medical Research Studies
9
We explored the connection between zinc deficiency and anemia through the case of an 18-year-old woman who faced a series of health issues, including urinary tract infections and insulin dysfunction. After a thorough assessment, she was diagnosed with zinc deficiency, shedding light on how this overlooked issue can impact overall health.
What stood out to us was the rapid recovery the patient experienced after beginning oral zinc supplementation. Zinc plays a critical role in numerous bodily functions, including immune support and protein regulation. By addressing her deficiency, we observed significant improvement in her symptoms, including anemia.
The patient’s diet contained high levels of substances that were inhibiting her zinc absorption, which likely contributed to her condition. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing zinc deficiency as a potential underlying cause for unexplained health issues, particularly anemia. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can lead to a complete turnaround in the patient's health.
By sharing this experience, we hope to raise awareness among clinicians about the vital role of zinc in managing anemia and encourage timely interventions for patients showing diverse symptoms.
What stood out to us was the rapid recovery the patient experienced after beginning oral zinc supplementation. Zinc plays a critical role in numerous bodily functions, including immune support and protein regulation. By addressing her deficiency, we observed significant improvement in her symptoms, including anemia.
The patient’s diet contained high levels of substances that were inhibiting her zinc absorption, which likely contributed to her condition. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing zinc deficiency as a potential underlying cause for unexplained health issues, particularly anemia. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can lead to a complete turnaround in the patient's health.
By sharing this experience, we hope to raise awareness among clinicians about the vital role of zinc in managing anemia and encourage timely interventions for patients showing diverse symptoms.
Read More
9
We observed an intriguing case involving a 51-year-old woman diagnosed with treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) who developed severe anemia while undergoing clozapine therapy. This case highlights the complex relationship between clozapine, a potent antipsychotic, and zinc deficiency. Through identifying zinc deficiency as a possible contributing factor to the anemia, we explored how zinc supplementation could play a pivotal role in restoring hemoglobin levels.
Following zinc supplementation, we noted impressive improvements in her hemoglobin, allowing the patient to continue her clozapine at a therapeutic dosage. Remarkably, she has shown stability since, with no signs of recurrent anemia. While clozapine can lead to various complications, including anemia, this case suggests that addressing zinc levels may be critical for patients receiving this treatment.
However, we must acknowledge that the exact mechanism linking zinc deficiency and clozapine-related anemia remains unclear. Thus, further investigation is warranted to fully understand this relationship and the potential of zinc in managing anemia, particularly in patients on clozapine.
Following zinc supplementation, we noted impressive improvements in her hemoglobin, allowing the patient to continue her clozapine at a therapeutic dosage. Remarkably, she has shown stability since, with no signs of recurrent anemia. While clozapine can lead to various complications, including anemia, this case suggests that addressing zinc levels may be critical for patients receiving this treatment.
However, we must acknowledge that the exact mechanism linking zinc deficiency and clozapine-related anemia remains unclear. Thus, further investigation is warranted to fully understand this relationship and the potential of zinc in managing anemia, particularly in patients on clozapine.
Read More
8
We explored the impact of zinc treatment on anemia, particularly focusing on preterm and low birth weight infants in low- and middle-income countries. Previous evidence suggested a strong correlation between zinc supplementation and the reduction of anemia rates.
Our review revealed that adding zinc, along with other micronutrients, seems to show promising benefits. Specifically, it can help reduce levels of anemia in vulnerable populations, contributing to better health outcomes.
What's important to note is that benefits from zinc supplementation were often accompanied by other nutrients, making it challenging to isolate its specific effectiveness. Nevertheless, the consensus indicates that zinc, along with iron and vitamin A, plays a supportive role in promoting overall growth and reducing complications related to anemia.
Therefore, while we didn't claim that zinc alone is a catch-all solution, it does hold significant promise when combined with a broader nutritional strategy. This highlights the essential need for ongoing research into micronutrient supplementation in these high-risk groups.
Our review revealed that adding zinc, along with other micronutrients, seems to show promising benefits. Specifically, it can help reduce levels of anemia in vulnerable populations, contributing to better health outcomes.
What's important to note is that benefits from zinc supplementation were often accompanied by other nutrients, making it challenging to isolate its specific effectiveness. Nevertheless, the consensus indicates that zinc, along with iron and vitamin A, plays a supportive role in promoting overall growth and reducing complications related to anemia.
Therefore, while we didn't claim that zinc alone is a catch-all solution, it does hold significant promise when combined with a broader nutritional strategy. This highlights the essential need for ongoing research into micronutrient supplementation in these high-risk groups.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Cold season support
I always take zinc during cold season, as it is one of my essential supplements (with vitamin D and C). I consume them regularly and especially at the first signs of illness. It's important to take zinc after meals to avoid nausea. Taking these supplements together reduces the duration of illness. I advise careful consumption based on zinc and copper analysis, as excessive zinc can cause copper deficiency, especially important for one who suffers from anaemia.
Read More
8
Significant improvement
I took it to my brother who suffers from scalp allergies, and I use it as I suffer from anemia and am forbidden to take nuts. Recently, I've experienced hair loss and dry, peeling skin on my hands, sometimes to the point of bleeding. However, since I began taking zinc, my condition has improved by 80%.
Read More
7.5
Health improvement
Zinc deficiency can lead to anaemia, so I drank it alternately with copper after testing. My health has improved, along with my hair and immunity.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 7 Researches
6.6
- All Researches
9
We observed an intriguing case involving a 51-year-old woman diagnosed with treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) who developed severe anemia while undergoing clozapine therapy. This case highlights the complex relationship between clozapine, a potent antipsychotic, and zinc deficiency. Through identifying zinc deficiency as a possible contributing factor to the anemia, we explored how zinc supplementation could play a pivotal role in restoring hemoglobin levels.
Following zinc supplementation, we noted impressive improvements in her hemoglobin, allowing the patient to continue her clozapine at a therapeutic dosage. Remarkably, she has shown stability since, with no signs of recurrent anemia. While clozapine can lead to various complications, including anemia, this case suggests that addressing zinc levels may be critical for patients receiving this treatment.
However, we must acknowledge that the exact mechanism linking zinc deficiency and clozapine-related anemia remains unclear. Thus, further investigation is warranted to fully understand this relationship and the potential of zinc in managing anemia, particularly in patients on clozapine.
Following zinc supplementation, we noted impressive improvements in her hemoglobin, allowing the patient to continue her clozapine at a therapeutic dosage. Remarkably, she has shown stability since, with no signs of recurrent anemia. While clozapine can lead to various complications, including anemia, this case suggests that addressing zinc levels may be critical for patients receiving this treatment.
However, we must acknowledge that the exact mechanism linking zinc deficiency and clozapine-related anemia remains unclear. Thus, further investigation is warranted to fully understand this relationship and the potential of zinc in managing anemia, particularly in patients on clozapine.
Read More
9
We explored the connection between zinc deficiency and anemia through the case of an 18-year-old woman who faced a series of health issues, including urinary tract infections and insulin dysfunction. After a thorough assessment, she was diagnosed with zinc deficiency, shedding light on how this overlooked issue can impact overall health.
What stood out to us was the rapid recovery the patient experienced after beginning oral zinc supplementation. Zinc plays a critical role in numerous bodily functions, including immune support and protein regulation. By addressing her deficiency, we observed significant improvement in her symptoms, including anemia.
The patient’s diet contained high levels of substances that were inhibiting her zinc absorption, which likely contributed to her condition. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing zinc deficiency as a potential underlying cause for unexplained health issues, particularly anemia. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can lead to a complete turnaround in the patient's health.
By sharing this experience, we hope to raise awareness among clinicians about the vital role of zinc in managing anemia and encourage timely interventions for patients showing diverse symptoms.
What stood out to us was the rapid recovery the patient experienced after beginning oral zinc supplementation. Zinc plays a critical role in numerous bodily functions, including immune support and protein regulation. By addressing her deficiency, we observed significant improvement in her symptoms, including anemia.
The patient’s diet contained high levels of substances that were inhibiting her zinc absorption, which likely contributed to her condition. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing zinc deficiency as a potential underlying cause for unexplained health issues, particularly anemia. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can lead to a complete turnaround in the patient's health.
By sharing this experience, we hope to raise awareness among clinicians about the vital role of zinc in managing anemia and encourage timely interventions for patients showing diverse symptoms.
Read More
8
Zinc improves anaemia outcomes
We set out to explore how zinc, through micronutrient powders (MNPs), influences anaemia in young children, particularly in Bangladesh, where high rates of anaemia persist. In a well-structured trial, we observed children aged 9-11 months receiving daily doses of MNPs for 24 weeks. Initially, a staggering 54.1% of these children had anaemia, characterized by low hemoglobin levels.
At the end of the study, anaemia prevalence decreased to 32.6%, indicating some positive effects of the MNPs, which included zinc as one of their components. However, while we found various factors associated with anaemia—like underweight status and frequent illness—it's crucial to note that we could not isolate the specific impact of zinc on anaemia from other nutritional interventions included in the powders.
Overall, we acknowledged that while MNPs contribute to addressing anaemia, they should be part of a broader strategy that encompasses other factors impacting health and nutrition. This comprehensive approach ensures effective prevention and control of anaemia in vulnerable populations.
At the end of the study, anaemia prevalence decreased to 32.6%, indicating some positive effects of the MNPs, which included zinc as one of their components. However, while we found various factors associated with anaemia—like underweight status and frequent illness—it's crucial to note that we could not isolate the specific impact of zinc on anaemia from other nutritional interventions included in the powders.
Overall, we acknowledged that while MNPs contribute to addressing anaemia, they should be part of a broader strategy that encompasses other factors impacting health and nutrition. This comprehensive approach ensures effective prevention and control of anaemia in vulnerable populations.
Read More
8
We explored the impact of zinc treatment on anemia, particularly focusing on preterm and low birth weight infants in low- and middle-income countries. Previous evidence suggested a strong correlation between zinc supplementation and the reduction of anemia rates.
Our review revealed that adding zinc, along with other micronutrients, seems to show promising benefits. Specifically, it can help reduce levels of anemia in vulnerable populations, contributing to better health outcomes.
What's important to note is that benefits from zinc supplementation were often accompanied by other nutrients, making it challenging to isolate its specific effectiveness. Nevertheless, the consensus indicates that zinc, along with iron and vitamin A, plays a supportive role in promoting overall growth and reducing complications related to anemia.
Therefore, while we didn't claim that zinc alone is a catch-all solution, it does hold significant promise when combined with a broader nutritional strategy. This highlights the essential need for ongoing research into micronutrient supplementation in these high-risk groups.
Our review revealed that adding zinc, along with other micronutrients, seems to show promising benefits. Specifically, it can help reduce levels of anemia in vulnerable populations, contributing to better health outcomes.
What's important to note is that benefits from zinc supplementation were often accompanied by other nutrients, making it challenging to isolate its specific effectiveness. Nevertheless, the consensus indicates that zinc, along with iron and vitamin A, plays a supportive role in promoting overall growth and reducing complications related to anemia.
Therefore, while we didn't claim that zinc alone is a catch-all solution, it does hold significant promise when combined with a broader nutritional strategy. This highlights the essential need for ongoing research into micronutrient supplementation in these high-risk groups.
Read More
4
We examined how zinc supplementation affects anemia in people living with HIV who are on antiretroviral therapy. This review included various studies that looked at the relationship between zinc intake and anemia outcomes.
Overall, the findings suggest that zinc supplementation had little to no significant effect on hemoglobin levels, which is one of the key indicators of anemia. Although the study indicated some uncertainty regarding its impact, we found that as serum zinc levels increased by 10 µg/dL, the expected increase in CD4 lymphocyte count slightly decreased.
This means that while zinc may play a role in immune health, its direct effect on alleviating anemia in this population is not clearly defined. It’s important to note that the evidence surrounding zinc and its impact on hemoglobin concentration remains inconclusive, and further research is needed to clarify its role.
Overall, the findings suggest that zinc supplementation had little to no significant effect on hemoglobin levels, which is one of the key indicators of anemia. Although the study indicated some uncertainty regarding its impact, we found that as serum zinc levels increased by 10 µg/dL, the expected increase in CD4 lymphocyte count slightly decreased.
This means that while zinc may play a role in immune health, its direct effect on alleviating anemia in this population is not clearly defined. It’s important to note that the evidence surrounding zinc and its impact on hemoglobin concentration remains inconclusive, and further research is needed to clarify its role.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 12 Reviews
7.4
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Cold season support
I always take zinc during cold season, as it is one of my essential supplements (with vitamin D and C). I consume them regularly and especially at the first signs of illness. It's important to take zinc after meals to avoid nausea. Taking these supplements together reduces the duration of illness. I advise careful consumption based on zinc and copper analysis, as excessive zinc can cause copper deficiency, especially important for one who suffers from anaemia.
Read More
8
Significant improvement
I took it to my brother who suffers from scalp allergies, and I use it as I suffer from anemia and am forbidden to take nuts. Recently, I've experienced hair loss and dry, peeling skin on my hands, sometimes to the point of bleeding. However, since I began taking zinc, my condition has improved by 80%.
Read More
7.5
Health improvement
Zinc deficiency can lead to anaemia, so I drank it alternately with copper after testing. My health has improved, along with my hair and immunity.
Read More
9
Helpful cofactor
I took it at the first signs of covid and generally as a cofactor in treating anemia; it truly helps.
Read More
7.5
Essential zinc intake
It is essential to have zinc when dealing with anemia, especially after contracting covid, as a preventive measure.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
8
Significant improvement
I took it to my brother who suffers from scalp allergies, and I use it as I suffer from anemia and am forbidden to take nuts. Recently, I've experienced hair loss and dry, peeling skin on my hands, sometimes to the point of bleeding. However, since I began taking zinc, my condition has improved by 80%.
1
Iron level drop
I liked it, but after drinking it for over a month, my iron levels dropped significantly, leading to anaemia. I experienced this myself; I took it for two months.
7.5
Integrated approach needed
As someone with anaemia, I have been using iron and zinc preparations for a long time. It’s wise to take them carefully and in courses. I consume zinc after a substantial meal with vitamin C to avoid side effects. It's important to maintain a balance as everything is interconnected. This zinc formula is well absorbed and shows benefits when used correctly. For continuous use, a lower dosage may be best.
7.5
Health improvement
Zinc deficiency can lead to anaemia, so I drank it alternately with copper after testing. My health has improved, along with my hair and immunity.
9
Cold season support
I always take zinc during cold season, as it is one of my essential supplements (with vitamin D and C). I consume them regularly and especially at the first signs of illness. It's important to take zinc after meals to avoid nausea. Taking these supplements together reduces the duration of illness. I advise careful consumption based on zinc and copper analysis, as excessive zinc can cause copper deficiency, especially important for one who suffers from anaemia.
2
Iron deficiency caution
This product is in excellent shape with a good dosage; however, it is not suitable for long-term use. It displaces iron, so one must be cautious if suffering from iron deficiency anaemia.
8
Zinc improves anaemia outcomes
We set out to explore how zinc, through micronutrient powders (MNPs), influences anaemia in young children, particularly in Bangladesh, where high rates of anaemia persist. In a well-structured trial, we observed children aged 9-11 months receiving daily doses of MNPs for 24 weeks. Initially, a staggering 54.1% of these children had anaemia, characterized by low hemoglobin levels.
At the end of the study, anaemia prevalence decreased to 32.6%, indicating some positive effects of the MNPs, which included zinc as one of their components. However, while we found various factors associated with anaemia—like underweight status and frequent illness—it's crucial to note that we could not isolate the specific impact of zinc on anaemia from other nutritional interventions included in the powders.
Overall, we acknowledged that while MNPs contribute to addressing anaemia, they should be part of a broader strategy that encompasses other factors impacting health and nutrition. This comprehensive approach ensures effective prevention and control of anaemia in vulnerable populations.
At the end of the study, anaemia prevalence decreased to 32.6%, indicating some positive effects of the MNPs, which included zinc as one of their components. However, while we found various factors associated with anaemia—like underweight status and frequent illness—it's crucial to note that we could not isolate the specific impact of zinc on anaemia from other nutritional interventions included in the powders.
Overall, we acknowledged that while MNPs contribute to addressing anaemia, they should be part of a broader strategy that encompasses other factors impacting health and nutrition. This comprehensive approach ensures effective prevention and control of anaemia in vulnerable populations.
9
We observed an intriguing case involving a 51-year-old woman diagnosed with treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) who developed severe anemia while undergoing clozapine therapy. This case highlights the complex relationship between clozapine, a potent antipsychotic, and zinc deficiency. Through identifying zinc deficiency as a possible contributing factor to the anemia, we explored how zinc supplementation could play a pivotal role in restoring hemoglobin levels.
Following zinc supplementation, we noted impressive improvements in her hemoglobin, allowing the patient to continue her clozapine at a therapeutic dosage. Remarkably, she has shown stability since, with no signs of recurrent anemia. While clozapine can lead to various complications, including anemia, this case suggests that addressing zinc levels may be critical for patients receiving this treatment.
However, we must acknowledge that the exact mechanism linking zinc deficiency and clozapine-related anemia remains unclear. Thus, further investigation is warranted to fully understand this relationship and the potential of zinc in managing anemia, particularly in patients on clozapine.
Following zinc supplementation, we noted impressive improvements in her hemoglobin, allowing the patient to continue her clozapine at a therapeutic dosage. Remarkably, she has shown stability since, with no signs of recurrent anemia. While clozapine can lead to various complications, including anemia, this case suggests that addressing zinc levels may be critical for patients receiving this treatment.
However, we must acknowledge that the exact mechanism linking zinc deficiency and clozapine-related anemia remains unclear. Thus, further investigation is warranted to fully understand this relationship and the potential of zinc in managing anemia, particularly in patients on clozapine.
4
We examined how zinc supplementation affects anemia in people living with HIV who are on antiretroviral therapy. This review included various studies that looked at the relationship between zinc intake and anemia outcomes.
Overall, the findings suggest that zinc supplementation had little to no significant effect on hemoglobin levels, which is one of the key indicators of anemia. Although the study indicated some uncertainty regarding its impact, we found that as serum zinc levels increased by 10 µg/dL, the expected increase in CD4 lymphocyte count slightly decreased.
This means that while zinc may play a role in immune health, its direct effect on alleviating anemia in this population is not clearly defined. It’s important to note that the evidence surrounding zinc and its impact on hemoglobin concentration remains inconclusive, and further research is needed to clarify its role.
Overall, the findings suggest that zinc supplementation had little to no significant effect on hemoglobin levels, which is one of the key indicators of anemia. Although the study indicated some uncertainty regarding its impact, we found that as serum zinc levels increased by 10 µg/dL, the expected increase in CD4 lymphocyte count slightly decreased.
This means that while zinc may play a role in immune health, its direct effect on alleviating anemia in this population is not clearly defined. It’s important to note that the evidence surrounding zinc and its impact on hemoglobin concentration remains inconclusive, and further research is needed to clarify its role.
8
We explored the impact of zinc treatment on anemia, particularly focusing on preterm and low birth weight infants in low- and middle-income countries. Previous evidence suggested a strong correlation between zinc supplementation and the reduction of anemia rates.
Our review revealed that adding zinc, along with other micronutrients, seems to show promising benefits. Specifically, it can help reduce levels of anemia in vulnerable populations, contributing to better health outcomes.
What's important to note is that benefits from zinc supplementation were often accompanied by other nutrients, making it challenging to isolate its specific effectiveness. Nevertheless, the consensus indicates that zinc, along with iron and vitamin A, plays a supportive role in promoting overall growth and reducing complications related to anemia.
Therefore, while we didn't claim that zinc alone is a catch-all solution, it does hold significant promise when combined with a broader nutritional strategy. This highlights the essential need for ongoing research into micronutrient supplementation in these high-risk groups.
Our review revealed that adding zinc, along with other micronutrients, seems to show promising benefits. Specifically, it can help reduce levels of anemia in vulnerable populations, contributing to better health outcomes.
What's important to note is that benefits from zinc supplementation were often accompanied by other nutrients, making it challenging to isolate its specific effectiveness. Nevertheless, the consensus indicates that zinc, along with iron and vitamin A, plays a supportive role in promoting overall growth and reducing complications related to anemia.
Therefore, while we didn't claim that zinc alone is a catch-all solution, it does hold significant promise when combined with a broader nutritional strategy. This highlights the essential need for ongoing research into micronutrient supplementation in these high-risk groups.
References
- Thompson L, Arnold C, Peerson J, Long JM, Westcott JLE, et al. Predictors of Anaemia Among Young Children Receiving Daily Micronutrient Powders (MNPs) for 24 Weeks in Bangladesh: A Secondary Analysis of the Zinc in Powders Trial. Matern Child Nutr. 2025. 10.1111/mcn.13806
- Matsuo-Yamamoto K, Uenishi S, Ishiyama Y, Yamada S, Kitabata Y, et al. Successful Clozapine Treatment for Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia With Zinc Deficiency Severe Anemia: A Case Report. Neuropsychopharmacol Rep. 2025;45:e12526. 10.1002/npr2.12526
- Azhar M, Yasin R, Hanif S, Bughio SA, Das JK, et al. Nutritional Management of Low Birth Weight and Preterm Infants in Low- and Low Middle-Income Countries. Neonatology. 2025;122:209. 10.1159/000542154
- Okoka EM, Kuyebi MA, Oyadiran OT, Okusanya TR, Onaku E, et al. Effect of Micronutrients on HIV-Related Clinical Outcomes Among Adults Living With HIV on Antiretroviral Therapy: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Nutr Rev. 2024. 10.1093/nutrit/nuae171
- Vicente IST, Fleuri LF, Xavier WDS, Guimarães MG, de Carvalho PLPF, et al. The Effects of Dietary Orange Peel Fragments Enriched with Zinc and Vitamins C and E on the Antioxidant and Immune Responses of Nile Tilapia under Stress Conditions. Animals (Basel). 2024;14. 10.3390/ani14202962
- Inoue M. Zinc Deficiency Presenting With Diverse Symptoms in a Young Patient: A Case Report. Cureus. 2024;16:e66034. 10.7759/cureus.66034
- Mohammad Shafiee S, Amiri F, Yousefi F, Akbari Nasab N. Pro-Oxidant/ Antioxidant Balance Correlates with Red Blood Cell Indices and Anemia Severity in the Anemic Patients. Rep Biochem Mol Biol. 2024;12:609. 10.61186/rbmb.12.4.609
