Zinc × Fluoroquinolones
MODERATE
Well-Established Evidence
Mechanism
Zinc chelates fluoroquinolone antibiotics, reducing absorption.
Effect
Reduced antibiotic absorption and efficacy
Management
Separate doses by at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after antibiotic.
Plain Language Summary
AI-generated · Qwen 3.6 · grounded in 2 sources · methodologyThis combination can be problematic because zinc binds to the antibiotic, which may prevent your body from absorbing the full dose. This can make the treatment less effective. The data indicates that doses should be separated by at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after the antibiotic.
Source
FDA fluoroquinolone labeling
Research
Supporting Research
Oral zinc for treating diarrhoea in children
Zinc for the prevention or treatment of acute viral respiratory tract infections in adults: a rapid systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Compression bandages or stockings versus no compression for treating venous leg ulcers
Zinc for the common cold
Interventions for managing halitosis
Interventions for itch in people with advanced chronic kidney disease
Topical antimicrobial agents for treating foot ulcers in people with diabetes
Local interventions for the management of alveolar osteitis (dry socket)
Medical Disclaimer: This interaction record is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before combining any supplement with prescription medications.