Are there any problems with zinc collecting in the body over time?
Dr. Brewer has over two decades of experience using zinc to treat Wilson’s disease, and the zinc levels in the body increase slightly initially but zinc does not accumulate over time. We know this from repeat measurements including repeat liver biopsies which were used to measure liver copper and zinc to answer this very question. In short, the main concern with long-term treatment with zinc (as well as a concern with all other forms of treatment of Wilson’s Disease) would be the potential for over treatment which may lead to copper deficiency. Fortunately, this is relatively unusual but we monitor 24-hour urine copper and zinc levels to avert this from happening on at least an annual basis. If copper levels get too low, zinc doses can be reduced before the symptoms of copper deficiency, primarily manifested as anemia, ensue. The best approach is keep taking your zinc and check your urine copper and zinc at least once a year. – Fred Askari, M.D., Ph.D.
