What is the recommended zinc dose for infants under 6 months of age with Acute Diarrhea?

The recommended zinc dose for infants under 6 months of age experiencing acute diarrhea is 10 mg for 14 days. This recommendation aligns with international guidelines because zinc supplementation has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea in children.

Zinc plays a crucial role in enhancing the immune response and improving gut function, which is particularly beneficial during episodes of diarrhea. The duration of 14 days for supplementation is also significant, as it allows sufficient time for the effect of zinc to manifest and assists in faster recovery from diarrhea, while also helping to prevent future episodes.

When considering the age group of infants under 6 months, the dosage of 10 mg is appropriate, as it is vital to balance efficacy with safety in this vulnerable population. A lower dose of 5 mg might not provide the optimal therapeutic effect seen with the higher recommended dose. Meanwhile, doses such as 15 mg or 20 mg may exceed the necessary dosage for this age group, potentially leading to adverse effects or toxicity, which is a crucial consideration when treating infants.