Effect of zinc histidine hydrate in maintenance hemodialysis patients with hypozincemia

Abstract Background Zinc is an essential trace element involved in numerous physiological processes, including immune function, wound healing, and protein synthesis. Hypozincemia is common in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis; however, evidence regarding the clinical effects of zinc supplementation in this population remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of hypozincemia and evaluate the effects of zinc histidine hydrate. Methods We retrospectively analyzed clinical data from 269 patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis at three facilities. Associations between serum zinc concentrations and other laboratory parameters were assessed. In addition, changes in laboratory parameters were evaluated in 53 patients who received zinc histidine hydrate for 3 months. Results The mean serum zinc concentration was 70 ± 18 µg/dL. Serum zinc concentrations were below 80 µg/dL in 81.8% of patients. After 3 months of treatment, serum zinc concentrations increased significantly from 58 ± 9 to 96 ± 37 µg/dL (P < 0.001). Serum alkaline phosphatase concentrations also increased significantly, from 79 ± 37 to 87 ± 44 U/L (P = 0.004). Serum copper concentrations decreased significantly from 95 ± 18 to 86 ± 22 µg/dL (P < 0.001). One of the 54 patients who initiated treatment discontinued it because of nausea. Conclusions Hypozincemia was prevalent among patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. Zinc histidine hydrate treatment was associated with increased serum zinc and alkaline phosphatase concentrations and decreased serum copper concentrations. Monitoring serum copper during treatment is important.