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Published on: February 23, 2024
Zinc supplementation in burn patients
Nancy Caldis-Coutris1, Justin P Gawaziuk, Sarvesh Logsetty
1Firefighters' Burn Unit, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Summary
This study found that 50 mg of daily zinc supplementation safely normalized serum zinc levels in most burn patients without affecting copper levels or causing side effects.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Nutrition
- Burn Management
- Micronutrient Research
Background:
- Micronutrient supplementation is common in burn centers.
- Optimal dosage, duration, and side effect profiles remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a specific micronutrient regimen in burn patients.
- To determine if 50 mg of daily zinc supplementation normalizes serum zinc levels and affects serum copper.
Main Methods:
- Prospective data collection from 23 hospitalized burn patients (10-93% TBSA).
- Daily multivitamin, 50 mg zinc (Zn), and 1000 mg vitamin C administered orally or enterally.
- Weekly monitoring of albumin, prealbumin, C-reactive protein, serum Zn, and serum copper.
Main Results:
- 50 mg daily zinc normalized serum levels in 19 of 23 patients by discharge.
- Zinc supplementation did not interfere with serum copper levels.
- No gastrointestinal side effects were reported regardless of administration route.
Conclusions:
- A 50 mg daily zinc dose appears safe and effective for burn patients.
- This supplementation regimen can help restore zinc homeostasis without adverse effects on copper or the GI tract.
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Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History: