Selected Medications
DepletionsCopperAlthough copper deficiency is rare, signs and symptoms of long term depletion of copper include anemia, changes in the structure and appearance of hair, heart damage, growth retardation, impaired bone formation, osteoporosis (bone loss), and emphysema (lung disease). ZincSigns and symptoms of zinc deficiency include loss of appetite or sense of taste, growth retardation, skin changes, and increased susceptibility to infection.
Editorial NoteThe selected depletions information presented here identifies some of the nutrients that may be depleted by certain medications. The signs and symptoms associated with nutrient deficiency may also indicate conditions other than nutrient deficiency. If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms mentioned, it does not necessarily mean that you are nutrient deficient. Nutrient depletion depends upon a number of factors, including your medical history, diet, and lifestyle, as well as the length of time you have been taking the medication. Please consult your health care provider; he or she can best assess and address your individual health care needs and determine if you are at risk for nutrient depletions from these medications, as well as others not listed here.
Supporting ResearchAmes BN. Micronutrient deficiencies: A major cause of DNA damage. Ann NY Acad Sci. 2000;889:87-106. Araya M, Pizarro F, Olivares M, Arredondo M, González M, Méndez M. Understanding copper homeostasis in humans and copper effects on health. Biol Res. 2006;39(1):183-7. Donnelly PS, Xiao Z, Wedd AG.Copper and Alzheimer's disease. Curr Opin Chem Biol. 2007 Apr;11(2):128-33. Hambidge M. Human zinc deficiency. J Nutr. 2000;130(5S Suppl):1344S-1349S. Maret W, Sandstead HH. Zinc requirements and the risks and benefits of zinc supplementation. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2006;20(1):3-18. Pelton R, LaValle J, Hawkins EB, et al. Drug Induced Nutrient Depletion Handbook. Hudson, OH:LexiComp, Inc.;2001:429-430. Powell SR. The antioxidant properties of zinc. J Nutr. 2000;130(5S Suppl):1447S-54S. Tubek S, Grzanka P, Tubek I. Role of Zinc in Hemostasis: A Review. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2007; [Epub ahead of print].
Review Date:
5/10/2010 Reviewed By: Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed HealthCare Network. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
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