5/13/2025
Last update
5/13/2025
Reviewed By
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 7 Researches
7.9
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 15 Reviews
8.1
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
7
We aimed to uncover the connection between dietary zinc deficiency and symptoms associated with major depressive disorder (MDD). In our study, we used rats fed either a zinc-adequate diet or one deficient in zinc for four weeks.
We then analyzed the changes in protein expression in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus—two brain areas closely linked to depression. This approach allowed us to see how zinc deficiency impacts the brain at a molecular level.
Our findings revealed that significant alterations occurred in proteins related to zinc transport and mitochondrial function due to the deficiency. In particular, we saw a notable decline in the activity of complex I of the mitochondrial energy production pathway in the prefrontal cortex.
These results suggest that low zinc levels can disrupt vital brain functions, potentially contributing to the development of depressive symptoms. This highlights the importance of maintaining adequate zinc levels for mental health.
We then analyzed the changes in protein expression in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus—two brain areas closely linked to depression. This approach allowed us to see how zinc deficiency impacts the brain at a molecular level.
Our findings revealed that significant alterations occurred in proteins related to zinc transport and mitochondrial function due to the deficiency. In particular, we saw a notable decline in the activity of complex I of the mitochondrial energy production pathway in the prefrontal cortex.
These results suggest that low zinc levels can disrupt vital brain functions, potentially contributing to the development of depressive symptoms. This highlights the importance of maintaining adequate zinc levels for mental health.
Read More
9
We investigated the potential benefits of a novel zinc complex, specifically Zn(ALC)Cl(HO), for its effectiveness in treating depression. This innovative compound combines zinc with acetyl-l-carnitine, which is known for its role in energy metabolism and protecting brain cells.
Our findings revealed that this zinc complex displays a remarkable 54% improvement in antidepressant activity compared to standard acetyl-l-carnitine. We also observed its ability to reduce pain in tests involving chronic conditions, showing promise in enhancing overall mental and physical health.
Additionally, this compound demonstrated capability to cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting against cell damage from excessive glutamate. We think these results indicate that Zn(ALC)Cl(HO) could be a significant step forward in managing not just depression but also neurodegenerative challenges.
Our findings revealed that this zinc complex displays a remarkable 54% improvement in antidepressant activity compared to standard acetyl-l-carnitine. We also observed its ability to reduce pain in tests involving chronic conditions, showing promise in enhancing overall mental and physical health.
Additionally, this compound demonstrated capability to cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting against cell damage from excessive glutamate. We think these results indicate that Zn(ALC)Cl(HO) could be a significant step forward in managing not just depression but also neurodegenerative challenges.
Read More
8
Zinc may improve depressive symptoms
We explored the potential impact of zinc on depression, focusing on how this important mineral might help improve mood. Various studies suggest that zinc could play a role in combating depressive symptoms, offering a promising avenue for those who find themselves struggling with mental health issues.
While the research is still developing, there’s an encouraging indication that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of other treatments for depression. However, details about specific studies or methodologies are limited in our findings, which makes it tricky to fully gauge just how beneficial zinc is on its own.
We remain open to the need for more extensive research to truly understand zinc's place in depression treatment. The results so far are positive, yet more comprehensive studies could shed light on the best ways to incorporate zinc into therapeutic strategies for mental health.
While the research is still developing, there’s an encouraging indication that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of other treatments for depression. However, details about specific studies or methodologies are limited in our findings, which makes it tricky to fully gauge just how beneficial zinc is on its own.
We remain open to the need for more extensive research to truly understand zinc's place in depression treatment. The results so far are positive, yet more comprehensive studies could shed light on the best ways to incorporate zinc into therapeutic strategies for mental health.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Reduced fatigue
14 people found this helpful
This supplement has been effective for everyday fatigue, depression, and lack of energy from withdrawal symptoms of sleeping pills. My family suffers from insomnia due to such symptoms, and I found that adding zinc improved my overall condition, including decreasing irritability.
Read More
9
Irritation improved
4 people found this helpful
Initially thinking I had postpartum depression, I discovered I was actually zinc deficient. After starting zinc supplements, my irritation significantly decreased within days. The capsules were too large for me; hence, I divided them among family, making this a cost-effective solution.
Read More
9
Positive effects
1 people found this helpful
I have taken zinc citrate for two years now, and it works wonders for me. This form is easy to digest and has no side effects. My previous symptoms of irritability and fatigue related to depression have vanished, and I feel fantastic.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 7 Researches
7.9
- All Researches
9
We investigated the potential benefits of a novel zinc complex, specifically Zn(ALC)Cl(HO), for its effectiveness in treating depression. This innovative compound combines zinc with acetyl-l-carnitine, which is known for its role in energy metabolism and protecting brain cells.
Our findings revealed that this zinc complex displays a remarkable 54% improvement in antidepressant activity compared to standard acetyl-l-carnitine. We also observed its ability to reduce pain in tests involving chronic conditions, showing promise in enhancing overall mental and physical health.
Additionally, this compound demonstrated capability to cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting against cell damage from excessive glutamate. We think these results indicate that Zn(ALC)Cl(HO) could be a significant step forward in managing not just depression but also neurodegenerative challenges.
Our findings revealed that this zinc complex displays a remarkable 54% improvement in antidepressant activity compared to standard acetyl-l-carnitine. We also observed its ability to reduce pain in tests involving chronic conditions, showing promise in enhancing overall mental and physical health.
Additionally, this compound demonstrated capability to cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting against cell damage from excessive glutamate. We think these results indicate that Zn(ALC)Cl(HO) could be a significant step forward in managing not just depression but also neurodegenerative challenges.
Read More
8
We examined a case involving a 30-year-old woman diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder (DID) and bipolar I disorder. This patient was found to have zinc deficiency, which may have contributed to her mental health challenges, including emotional instability and dissociation.
While she initially did not respond to medications like aripiprazole and clonazepam, her symptoms started to improve with zinc supplementation at a dosage of 50 mg daily over five months. The real breakthrough came when we combined this with L-carnosine, a dipeptide known for its neuroprotective effects. Gradually increasing the L-carnosine dose from 0.5 g daily to 2 g daily led to marked improvements in her mental health conditions, including reduced dissociation and mood instability.
After five months of this combined treatment, her distinct alter identities diminished significantly, and within two years, they had disappeared completely. Notably, when the treatment was discontinued during a three-year follow-up, the identities resurfaced. The improvements were accompanied by a resolution of her zinc deficiency symptoms and reductions in her depression and dissociation severity scores.
Overall, this case suggests that zinc and L-carnosine may play a role in alleviating some depressive symptoms associated with dissociative identity disorder, but further investigation is warranted to understand the extent of zinc's contribution to these effects.
While she initially did not respond to medications like aripiprazole and clonazepam, her symptoms started to improve with zinc supplementation at a dosage of 50 mg daily over five months. The real breakthrough came when we combined this with L-carnosine, a dipeptide known for its neuroprotective effects. Gradually increasing the L-carnosine dose from 0.5 g daily to 2 g daily led to marked improvements in her mental health conditions, including reduced dissociation and mood instability.
After five months of this combined treatment, her distinct alter identities diminished significantly, and within two years, they had disappeared completely. Notably, when the treatment was discontinued during a three-year follow-up, the identities resurfaced. The improvements were accompanied by a resolution of her zinc deficiency symptoms and reductions in her depression and dissociation severity scores.
Overall, this case suggests that zinc and L-carnosine may play a role in alleviating some depressive symptoms associated with dissociative identity disorder, but further investigation is warranted to understand the extent of zinc's contribution to these effects.
Read More
8
Zinc may improve depressive symptoms
We explored the potential impact of zinc on depression, focusing on how this important mineral might help improve mood. Various studies suggest that zinc could play a role in combating depressive symptoms, offering a promising avenue for those who find themselves struggling with mental health issues.
While the research is still developing, there’s an encouraging indication that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of other treatments for depression. However, details about specific studies or methodologies are limited in our findings, which makes it tricky to fully gauge just how beneficial zinc is on its own.
We remain open to the need for more extensive research to truly understand zinc's place in depression treatment. The results so far are positive, yet more comprehensive studies could shed light on the best ways to incorporate zinc into therapeutic strategies for mental health.
While the research is still developing, there’s an encouraging indication that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of other treatments for depression. However, details about specific studies or methodologies are limited in our findings, which makes it tricky to fully gauge just how beneficial zinc is on its own.
We remain open to the need for more extensive research to truly understand zinc's place in depression treatment. The results so far are positive, yet more comprehensive studies could shed light on the best ways to incorporate zinc into therapeutic strategies for mental health.
Read More
8
We explored the intriguing relationship between zinc, obesity, and depression in a recent study. By examining mice with a specific deficiency in the WFS1 gene, we uncovered how this gene plays a significant role in both conditions. We fed these mice a high-fat diet and observed that their lack of WFS1 exacerbated symptoms of both obesity and depression.
In our investigation using human stem cells, we found that WFS1 is essential for regulating zinc levels within neural progenitor cells. This regulation influences cell health, especially in scenarios where lipid metabolism is disrupted. A key player in this process is the zinc transporter ZnT3, which WFS1 inhibits. Essentially, when WFS1 isn't functioning properly, it leads to imbalances in zinc that can promote cell death, a concern we found tied to obesity-related lipid issues.
Additionally, we tested riluzole, a therapeutic agent known for its nervous system benefits. This treatment showed promise in regulating ZnT3 and maintaining zinc balance, helping to protect neural progenitor cells from detrimental effects caused by excess fat. Riluzole administration in mice not only helped mitigate obesity but also eased related depressive symptoms.
However, while zinc is a significant factor within the framework of brain health, our findings suggest that the dynamics of how it interacts with obesity and depression are complex. Thus, while we noted zinc's importance through its linked pathways, we didn't isolate its effects separately, leaving some questions unanswered about zinc treatment's effectiveness on depression alone.
In our investigation using human stem cells, we found that WFS1 is essential for regulating zinc levels within neural progenitor cells. This regulation influences cell health, especially in scenarios where lipid metabolism is disrupted. A key player in this process is the zinc transporter ZnT3, which WFS1 inhibits. Essentially, when WFS1 isn't functioning properly, it leads to imbalances in zinc that can promote cell death, a concern we found tied to obesity-related lipid issues.
Additionally, we tested riluzole, a therapeutic agent known for its nervous system benefits. This treatment showed promise in regulating ZnT3 and maintaining zinc balance, helping to protect neural progenitor cells from detrimental effects caused by excess fat. Riluzole administration in mice not only helped mitigate obesity but also eased related depressive symptoms.
However, while zinc is a significant factor within the framework of brain health, our findings suggest that the dynamics of how it interacts with obesity and depression are complex. Thus, while we noted zinc's importance through its linked pathways, we didn't isolate its effects separately, leaving some questions unanswered about zinc treatment's effectiveness on depression alone.
Read More
8
Zinc's potential in depression treatment
We investigated how intranasal administration of a chelate complex of zinc arginyl-glycinate combined with alpha-glutamyl-tryptophan affects behaviors typically linked to depression. The study involved a variety of rodent models, namely Wistar and DAT-KO rats, as well as C57Bl6 and TAAR1-KO mice, allowing us to explore different genetic backgrounds in relation to depressive behaviors.
Our findings revealed that this specific method of zinc treatment along with the dipeptide showed potential in reducing anxiety and depressive-like behavior, especially after acute administration in C57Bl6 mice. Interestingly, chronic intranasal use also influenced anxiety levels in tested rodents but more consistent improvements in depressive behaviors were noted with acute treatments.
We suggest that intranasal delivery of this zinc and dipeptide combination could be a promising avenue to explore further as a possible new approach for addressing anxiety and depression. It also highlights the need for pre-clinical studies to confirm these benefits before any clinical applications can be considered.
Our findings revealed that this specific method of zinc treatment along with the dipeptide showed potential in reducing anxiety and depressive-like behavior, especially after acute administration in C57Bl6 mice. Interestingly, chronic intranasal use also influenced anxiety levels in tested rodents but more consistent improvements in depressive behaviors were noted with acute treatments.
We suggest that intranasal delivery of this zinc and dipeptide combination could be a promising avenue to explore further as a possible new approach for addressing anxiety and depression. It also highlights the need for pre-clinical studies to confirm these benefits before any clinical applications can be considered.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 15 Reviews
8.1
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Reduced fatigue
14 people found this helpful
This supplement has been effective for everyday fatigue, depression, and lack of energy from withdrawal symptoms of sleeping pills. My family suffers from insomnia due to such symptoms, and I found that adding zinc improved my overall condition, including decreasing irritability.
Read More
9
Irritation improved
4 people found this helpful
Initially thinking I had postpartum depression, I discovered I was actually zinc deficient. After starting zinc supplements, my irritation significantly decreased within days. The capsules were too large for me; hence, I divided them among family, making this a cost-effective solution.
Read More
9
Positive effects
1 people found this helpful
I have taken zinc citrate for two years now, and it works wonders for me. This form is easy to digest and has no side effects. My previous symptoms of irritability and fatigue related to depression have vanished, and I feel fantastic.
Read More
9
Valuable for health
Zinc offers several benefits, including improved skin, hair health, and support during colds. It combats depression and enhances brain health across various demographics, from teenagers with acne to older men for prostate function. Zinc is essential for women's health, especially during menopause.
Read More
7.5
Depression improvement
I've noticed that my depression is fading since I started taking this supplement.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Irritation improved
4 people found this helpful
Initially thinking I had postpartum depression, I discovered I was actually zinc deficient. After starting zinc supplements, my irritation significantly decreased within days. The capsules were too large for me; hence, I divided them among family, making this a cost-effective solution.
9
Enhanced energy
3 people found this helpful
These vitamins are excellent; after just one month, I found it easier to wake up and my feelings of drowsiness and apathy dissipated. My mood improved significantly, making it a great choice for those who frequently experience depression.
9
Positive effects
1 people found this helpful
I have taken zinc citrate for two years now, and it works wonders for me. This form is easy to digest and has no side effects. My previous symptoms of irritability and fatigue related to depression have vanished, and I feel fantastic.
7.5
Improved sleep quality
This supplement stabilises insomnia and depression while relieving stress. The quality ingredients effectively support brain function, concentration, and sleep quality, significantly improving my overall wellbeing.
7.5
Improved mood
90 people found this helpful
I had been experiencing considerable anxiety and depression recently, so I decided to try this vitamin. It has greatly benefited my health and mood. I've noticed a slight improvement in my work performance and energy levels. This supplement is an excellent choice if you aim to enhance your health, immunity, quality of life, and mood.
7.5
Supports wellbeing
Zinc effectively manages insomnia and depression, acting as a stabilising agent. It also promotes brain function, concentration, and improved sleep quality, making this supplement beneficial for overall health.
9
Reduced fatigue
14 people found this helpful
This supplement has been effective for everyday fatigue, depression, and lack of energy from withdrawal symptoms of sleeping pills. My family suffers from insomnia due to such symptoms, and I found that adding zinc improved my overall condition, including decreasing irritability.
7.5
Immune system boost
1 people found this helpful
Zinc is a vital trace element that combats insulin resistance and boosts immunity, especially in early respiratory infections. It aids T-lymphocyte activation and addresses skin issues like acne. It also contributes to hormone production and improves vision. Zinc deficiency can manifest as acne, hair loss, or depression, so I recommend taking it after meals to avoid nausea.
9
We investigated the potential benefits of a novel zinc complex, specifically Zn(ALC)Cl(HO), for its effectiveness in treating depression. This innovative compound combines zinc with acetyl-l-carnitine, which is known for its role in energy metabolism and protecting brain cells.
Our findings revealed that this zinc complex displays a remarkable 54% improvement in antidepressant activity compared to standard acetyl-l-carnitine. We also observed its ability to reduce pain in tests involving chronic conditions, showing promise in enhancing overall mental and physical health.
Additionally, this compound demonstrated capability to cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting against cell damage from excessive glutamate. We think these results indicate that Zn(ALC)Cl(HO) could be a significant step forward in managing not just depression but also neurodegenerative challenges.
Our findings revealed that this zinc complex displays a remarkable 54% improvement in antidepressant activity compared to standard acetyl-l-carnitine. We also observed its ability to reduce pain in tests involving chronic conditions, showing promise in enhancing overall mental and physical health.
Additionally, this compound demonstrated capability to cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting against cell damage from excessive glutamate. We think these results indicate that Zn(ALC)Cl(HO) could be a significant step forward in managing not just depression but also neurodegenerative challenges.
7
We explored the connection between zinc and stress-related depression through the lens of a specific receptor called GPR39. By utilizing a model of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) in mice, we investigated how changes in zinc levels could affect depression and responses to standard antidepressant treatments.
Our study revealed that mice lacking GPR39 were more vulnerable to chronic stress and did not respond to common antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). When we administered a GPR39 agonist, TC-G 1008, alongside antidepressants, we found that it enhanced the antidepressant-like effects. However, it's important to note that without GPR39, the effectiveness of these treatments was lessened, suggesting a crucial role of this receptor in depression mechanisms.
The findings suggest that GPR39 might be a valuable target for developing new depression therapies that incorporate zinc, although it also highlights the challenges of isolating the specific effects of zinc when paired with other treatments. Further research is needed to explore the potential of GPR39 and help clarify the relationship between zinc and depression treatment.
Our study revealed that mice lacking GPR39 were more vulnerable to chronic stress and did not respond to common antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). When we administered a GPR39 agonist, TC-G 1008, alongside antidepressants, we found that it enhanced the antidepressant-like effects. However, it's important to note that without GPR39, the effectiveness of these treatments was lessened, suggesting a crucial role of this receptor in depression mechanisms.
The findings suggest that GPR39 might be a valuable target for developing new depression therapies that incorporate zinc, although it also highlights the challenges of isolating the specific effects of zinc when paired with other treatments. Further research is needed to explore the potential of GPR39 and help clarify the relationship between zinc and depression treatment.
7
We aimed to uncover the connection between dietary zinc deficiency and symptoms associated with major depressive disorder (MDD). In our study, we used rats fed either a zinc-adequate diet or one deficient in zinc for four weeks.
We then analyzed the changes in protein expression in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus—two brain areas closely linked to depression. This approach allowed us to see how zinc deficiency impacts the brain at a molecular level.
Our findings revealed that significant alterations occurred in proteins related to zinc transport and mitochondrial function due to the deficiency. In particular, we saw a notable decline in the activity of complex I of the mitochondrial energy production pathway in the prefrontal cortex.
These results suggest that low zinc levels can disrupt vital brain functions, potentially contributing to the development of depressive symptoms. This highlights the importance of maintaining adequate zinc levels for mental health.
We then analyzed the changes in protein expression in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus—two brain areas closely linked to depression. This approach allowed us to see how zinc deficiency impacts the brain at a molecular level.
Our findings revealed that significant alterations occurred in proteins related to zinc transport and mitochondrial function due to the deficiency. In particular, we saw a notable decline in the activity of complex I of the mitochondrial energy production pathway in the prefrontal cortex.
These results suggest that low zinc levels can disrupt vital brain functions, potentially contributing to the development of depressive symptoms. This highlights the importance of maintaining adequate zinc levels for mental health.
8
Zinc may improve depressive symptoms
We explored the potential impact of zinc on depression, focusing on how this important mineral might help improve mood. Various studies suggest that zinc could play a role in combating depressive symptoms, offering a promising avenue for those who find themselves struggling with mental health issues.
While the research is still developing, there’s an encouraging indication that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of other treatments for depression. However, details about specific studies or methodologies are limited in our findings, which makes it tricky to fully gauge just how beneficial zinc is on its own.
We remain open to the need for more extensive research to truly understand zinc's place in depression treatment. The results so far are positive, yet more comprehensive studies could shed light on the best ways to incorporate zinc into therapeutic strategies for mental health.
While the research is still developing, there’s an encouraging indication that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of other treatments for depression. However, details about specific studies or methodologies are limited in our findings, which makes it tricky to fully gauge just how beneficial zinc is on its own.
We remain open to the need for more extensive research to truly understand zinc's place in depression treatment. The results so far are positive, yet more comprehensive studies could shed light on the best ways to incorporate zinc into therapeutic strategies for mental health.
References
- Caro-Ramírez JY, Bazán LO, Piro OE, Echeverría GA, Jori K, et al. Exploring Zn(II)-Acetyl l-carnitine complex for simultaneous management of depression, chronic pain, and neuroprotection. J Inorg Biochem. 2025;267:112857. 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2025.112857
- Siodłak D, Doboszewska U, Nowak G, Wlaź P, Mlyniec K. Investigating the role of GPR39 in treatment of stress-induced depression and anxiety. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2025. 10.1007/s00213-024-06736-0
- Sakae K, Suka M, Yanagisawa H. Dissociative Identity Disorder Cotreated With Zinc and L-carnosine: A Case Report. Cureus. 2024;16:e74794. 10.7759/cureus.74794
- Gąsior Ł, Pochwat B, Zaręba-Kozioł M, Włodarczyk J, Grabrucker AM, et al. Proteomics analysis in rats reveals convergent mechanisms between major depressive disorder and dietary zinc deficiency. Pharmacol Rep. 2025;77:145. 10.1007/s43440-024-00681-7
- Chrobak AA, Siwek M. Drugs with glutamate-based mechanisms of action in psychiatry. Pharmacol Rep. 2024;76:1256. 10.1007/s43440-024-00656-8
- Gong M, Fang Y, Yang K, Yuan F, Hu R, et al. The WFS1-ZnT3-Zn Axis Regulates the Vicious Cycle of Obesity and Depression. Adv Sci (Weinh). 2024;11:e2403405. 10.1002/advs.202403405
- Apryatin S, Lopachev A, Zhukov I, Efimova E, Apryatina V. BEHAVIORAL AND NEUROCHEMICAL CHANGES DURING INTRANASAL ADMINISTRATION OF ALPHA-GLUTAMYL-TRYPTOPHAN AND CHELATE COMPLEX OF ZINC ARGINYL-GLYCINATE ON MONOAMINE SYSTEMS DYSFUNCTIONS KNOCK-OUT MODELS. Georgian Med News. 2024.
