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Oral zinc sulphate reduces the recurrence rate and provides significant therapeutic effects for viral warts: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

  • 0Department of Medical Education, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
Plos One +

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May 7, 2025

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May 7, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Oral zinc sulfate significantly improves viral wart clearance and reduces recurrence. This treatment is particularly effective for individuals with low zinc levels and helps prevent warts from returning when used with traditional therapies.

Area Of Science

  • Immunology
  • Dermatology
  • Nutritional Science

Background

  • Zinc is essential for immune system balance and influences cytokine production, potentially impacting viral infections like Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
  • Viral warts, caused by HPV, are a common dermatological condition with various treatment options, but recurrence remains a challenge.
  • While some studies explored oral zinc sulfate for viral warts, comprehensive data on its efficacy was lacking.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To conduct a meta-analysis evaluating the effectiveness of oral zinc sulfate in treating viral warts.
  • To assess the impact of oral zinc sulfate on wart clearance rates and recurrence.
  • To identify factors influencing treatment outcomes, such as baseline zinc levels.

Main Methods

  • A systematic literature search was performed on major databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov) up to July 1, 2024.
  • Seven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 952 initial studies were included in the final meta-analysis.
  • Statistical analyses, including meta-regression, were used to determine the overall effect and subgroup differences.

Main Results

  • Oral zinc sulfate significantly increased the total clearance rate of warts compared to the control group (risk difference = 0.288, p = 0.005).
  • The therapeutic effect was more pronounced in participants with initially low plasma zinc levels (risk difference = 0.767, p < 0.001).
  • Oral zinc sulfate reduced the 6-month recurrence rate when combined with traditional wart treatments (log risk ratio = -1.043, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

  • Oral zinc sulfate monotherapy demonstrates significant benefits for viral wart treatment, especially for those seeking alternatives to conventional therapies.
  • Combining oral zinc sulfate with traditional treatments substantially lowers the rate of wart recurrence within six months.
  • The study highlights the potential of zinc supplementation in managing viral warts, with observed side effects including nausea and vomiting.