Zinc deficiency during childhood and adolescence is strongly linked to impaired linear growth and delayed sexual maturation, and is a recognized contributor to stunting in many low‑ and middle‑income countries. In some population studies, zinc deficiency has been present in over 30–40% of children, and zinc supplementation programs have been associated with modest but meaningful improvements in height gain over time. Clinically, even marginal zinc deficiency can quietly slow growth velocity and pubertal progression, making adequate zinc intake an important, often overlooked pillar of healthy growth and development. This medication is commonly used for Hypertension.
Abdollahi M, Ajami M, Abdollahi Z, Kalantari N, Houshiarrad A, Fozouni F, Fallahrokni A, Mazandarani FS. Zinc supplementation is an effective and feasible strategy to prevent growth retardation in 6 to 24 month children: A pragmatic double blind, randomized trial. Heliyon. 2019 Nov 1;5(11):e02581. Walravens PA, Krebs NF, Hambidge KM. Linear growth of low income preschool children receiving a zinc supplement. Am J Clin Nutr. 1983 Aug;38(2):195-201. Rerksuppaphol S, Rerksuppaphol L. Zinc supplementation enhances linear growth in school-aged children: A randomized controlled trial. Pediatr Rep. 2018 Jan 4;9(4):7294. Zinc deficiency as risk factor for stunting among children aged 2-5 years. (2017). Universa Medicina, 36(1), 11-18.
Some side effects may be linked to nutrient depletion caused by this medication.
This drug is a comprehensive combination of a calcium channel blocker and angiotensin receptor blocker. Calcium channel blockers (CCBs), particularly nifedipine, can cause gum tissue overgrowth (gingival hyperplasia) in both men and women. Studies suggest a dose-dependent link with CCBs potentially doubling the risk. Studies also confirm a link between CCB use (like amlodipine and nifedipine) and gingival hyperplasia, even beyond factors like poor hygiene. Research suggests impaired folate uptake in gum tissue might be another key contributor. Supplementation with folate to help protect against CCB-induced hyperplasia may be beneficial.
This drug is a comprehensive combination of a calcium channel blocker and angiotensin receptor blocker. Studies have shown that treatment with medications like Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) can lead to zincuria, which is increased urinary excretion of zinc. This increased excretion may potentially lead to zinc deficiency in some individuals and therefore supplementation should be considered.