Meta Information
ID:zinc-picolinate
Name:Zinc Picolinate
Schema Version:1.5
Alternate Names
- Zinc (Picolinate)
Active Compound
Zinc
Intervention Type
therapeutic_agent
Delivery
Route:
oral
Scope:
- systemic
Regulatory Status
- us:dietary_supplement
- eu:food_supplement
Indication
Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Supports immune function, DNA synthesis, and cellular metabolism by providing a highly bioavailable form of the essential mineral zinc.
Typical Protocol
- Take 15-30 mg of elemental zinc daily with a meal to minimize gastric upset.
- Ensure adequate copper intake (e.g., 1-2 mg daily) if supplementing with zinc long-term.
- Doses up to 50 mg may be used for short-term immune support.
Expected Cost Mean
Low Cost:
3
High Cost:
10
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Widely available and inexpensive over-the-counter supplement; not covered by insurance.
Summary
Zinc picolinate provides a highly absorbable form of the essential mineral zinc, a critical cofactor for over 300 enzymes. It plays a foundational role in immune function, antioxidant defense, protein synthesis, and DNA repair, all of which are vital for maintaining cellular health and resilience against age-related decline.
Purpose
Supports immune function, hormone production, and cellular repair.
Card Summary
A highly bioavailable form of zinc essential for immune health, DNA repair, and antioxidant defense.
Drug Class
zinc
Drugs In Class
Empty Array
Impact
Score:
6.2
Justification:
Essential for immune function and cellular repair, correcting common age-related deficiencies.
Evidence
Grade:
A
Score:
8.5
Justification:
Extensive human data confirms zinc's essential role in immunity and cellular health.
Safety
Score:
3
Justification:
Generally safe, but high doses can cause copper deficiency and GI upset.
Flags
- Long-term high-dose supplementation (>40 mg/day) can induce a copper deficiency.
- May cause nausea or gastric upset, especially when taken on an empty stomach.
- Can interfere with the absorption of quinolone and tetracycline antibiotics.
Verdict
A foundational mineral for immune health; correct deficiency for optimal function.
Created
2026-05-06T18:38:41.301526Z
Ai Model
Gemini 2.5 Pro (High)