Acute zinc sulfate overdose: clinical presentation and management

A woman in her 40s with a history of depression, diabetes, zinc deficiency and gastric bypass surgery presented to the emergency department following the intentional ingestion of ninety 50 mg tablets of zinc sulfate. She exhibited gastrointestinal distress without systemic toxicity. Imaging revealed radiopaque tablets in the abdomen, and her management was primarily supportive, focusing on symptom control and hydration. Chelating agents were not required as her serum zinc levels remained stable and no severe toxicity developed. This case emphasises the importance of cautious dietary supplement use, particularly in postsurgical patients, and the need for improved education on zinc toxicity risks.