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Overview: Galzin is used to treat Wilson’s disease, a genetic disorder that causes a buildup of copper in the body. It works by helping to prevent copper from being absorbed in the intestines. Common side effects include stomach upset or discomfort. Serious side effects are rare but may include stomach ulcers and low copper levels, which may lead to nerve problems, anemia, or other blood disorders. Galzin comes in a capsule that you take by mouth on an empty stomach.

Uses

What is Galzin used for?

Galzin (zinc acetate) is commonly used to treat certain people with Wilson’s disease, a genetic disorder that causes a buildup of copper in the body.

Galzin may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

Zinc is also available as a dietary supplement in various strengths and dosage forms to supplement levels of this element. See Zinc Supplements for more information.

How does Galzin work (mechanism of action)?

Galzin helps prevent copper from being absorbed in your intestines. It causes the cells in your intestines to make a protein that binds to copper from the food you eat. This keeps copper from being absorbed and helps prevent copper buildup in your body. After copper binds to the protein, it is removed from your body in your poop.

How is Galzin supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Galzin

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 25 mg oral capsules
  • 50 mg oral capsules

How should I store Galzin?

Galzin should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place. Protect from light. Keep the container tightly closed.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of Galzin?

The most common side effects of Galzin are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Stomach upset or discomfort
  • Changes in certain lab test results

There may be other side effects of Galzin that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Galzin?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Galzin are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Galzin may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking Galzin and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Copper Deficiency. Galzin may cause copper deficiency, or low copper levels, especially if taken for a long time. Copper deficiency can cause nerve problems and blood disorders, such as anemia, low platelet levels (thrombocytopenia), and low white blood cell levels (leukopenia). Stop taking Galzin and tell your health care provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms of copper deficiency.

  • Fever
  • Shortness of breath
  • Pale or yellowish skin
  • Easy bruising or bleeding
  • Frequent infection
  • Unusual weakness or tiredness
  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling like you are about to pass out
  • Headache
  • Fast or abnormal heartbeat
  • Walking problems, such as trouble walking, feeling unsteady, or weakness
  • Feeling of tingling or numbness in your arms, hands, legs, or feet

Stomach Ulcers. Galzin can increase your risk of stomach ulcers and tears (perforation). Stop taking Galzin and tell your health care provider right away if you have the following symptoms of stomach ulcers.

  • Vomit blood
  • Black or tarry poop
  • Stomach pain that does not go away
  • Upset stomach
  • Feel faint

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use Galzin?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take Galzin.

  • Galzin
  • Zinc acetate
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in Galzin.

What should I know about Galzin before using it?

Do not take Galzin unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Take it as prescribed.

Do not share Galzin with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep Galzin out of the reach of children.

Swallow Galzin whole. Do not open or chew the capsules.

When you are taking Galzin, your health care provider may do certain tests regularly to make sure Galzin is safe and working well for you. Keep all appointments with your health care provider, including for lab tests.

What should I tell my health care provider before using Galzin?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if Galzin is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Other Medicines and Supplements. Galzin may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before taking Galzin, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how Galzin could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Your health care provider will let you know if you should take Galzin while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. Galzin passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know if you should stop breastfeeding or stop Galzin.

How can I get more information about Galzin?

For more information about Galzin, you can visit the drugmaker’s website at www.galzin.com or call them at 833-442-5946.

Interactions

Does Galzin interact with foods or drinks?

Foods and drinks (other than water) can decrease the amount of Galzin absorbed by your body. Take Galzin on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two to three hours after meals. 

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect Galzin.

Does Galzin interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Galzin may interact with other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Galzin?

If you or someone else has used too much Galzin, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Galzin?

Missing doses of Galzin can cause it to not work as well over time. So it is important not to miss or skip doses.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.