+Z Boost Zinc Complex Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Shaklee
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking +Z Boost Zinc Complex against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.
Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy
+Z Boost Zinc Complex is a dietary supplement by Shaklee with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for zinc deficiency, immune support, cold symptoms.Based on those ingredients, 181 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Calcium, Zinc. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against +Z Boost Zinc Complex by Shaklee
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of +Z Boost Zinc Complex by Shaklee
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Full disclosure
+Z Boost Zinc Complex contains two active ingredients: zinc and calcium. Zinc supports immune function and wound healing, and is also used for zinc deficiency and certain skin and eye conditions.
Calcium is essential for bone and heart health. The product also includes croscarmellose sodium as an inactive ingredient (a binder and disintegrant that helps the tablet dissolve).
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
Zinc is effective for zinc deficiency and likely effective for Wilson disease (a copper storage disorder). It's possibly effective for acne, acrodermatitis enteropathica (a rare genetic condition), age-related macular degeneration, and diabetes.
Calcium is effective for kidney failure, indigestion (dyspepsia), and low blood calcium (hypocalcemia), and likely effective for osteoporosis. If you're taking this product for a specific condition, check whether zinc or calcium are supported by the evidence for your reason.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Both zinc and calcium are generally well tolerated at recommended doses. Zinc is safe below 40 mg daily for adults; higher doses can cause nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and a metallic taste.
Long-term high-dose zinc may raise the risk of copper deficiency, which can lead to anemia and low white blood cell counts. Calcium at recommended amounts can cause belching, constipation, or stomach upset.
The safety data on calcium in pregnancy is mixed — adequate calcium is important in pregnancy and lactation, but stay within recommended amounts unless your doctor advises otherwise. Very high calcium intake (over 1500 mg daily) has been weakly linked to increased prostate cancer risk in some studies, though this remains debated.
Meds to double-check
Major interaction found
Check with your pharmacist before starting if you take: HIV integrase inhibitors (dolutegravir, elvitegravir) or ritonavir — calcium or zinc can lower their levels; quinolone, tetracycline, or cephalosporin antibiotics — zinc blocks their absorption; thyroid medication (levothyroxine); heart medications (sotalol, diltiazem); penicillamine (for arthritis or heavy metal removal); cisplatin (chemotherapy); or raltegravir (HIV). Spacing doses by several hours is usually needed.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
This product is straightforward for people with zinc or calcium deficiency and no relevant medications. If you take any antibiotic (especially quinolones, tetracyclines, cephalexin, or penicillamine), any HIV medication, levothyroxine for thyroid, sotalol for heart rhythm, or cisplatin for cancer, you need to check your exact medications with your pharmacist before starting — spacing and timing matter.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 2 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Dec 21, 2024.
This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed
General information
Key facts about +Z Boost Zinc Complex, straight from the product label.
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.
Supplement Facts
The label details for +Z Boost Zinc Complex by Shaklee, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Zinc | 15 mg | 136% |
| Calcium | 120 mg | 9% |
Other ingredients: Croscarmellose Sodium
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formula
Nature's metabolic workhorse Zinc works as a trigger for over 200 different enzymes that are present in virtually every cell of the body and contribute to critical functions such as synthesizing proteins and DNA, supporting energy production, healthy metabolism, thyroid function, immunity, and memory.
High-potency zinc and calcium Adequate calcium intake is important, but daily intake above 2,000 mg is not likely to provide any additional benefits.
Star-K (Kosher)
Formulation
Gluten free
Immune system, metabolism, thyroid support + more
No artificial flavors, sweeteners, colors, or preservatives added.
Brand IP Statement(s)
Safe Proven Shaklee Since 1956 100% Guaranteed
Seals/Symbols
Safe Proven Shaklee Since 1956 100% Guaranteed
Star-K (Kosher)
Precautions
Seal under cap for your protection.
Manufactured in a facility that may also process peanuts, tree nuts, milk, egg, soy, wheat, shellfish, and fish.
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Directions: Take 1 tablet daily.
FDA Disclaimer Statement
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
+Z Boost Zinc Complex by Shaklee label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.
View the full label (PDF)The Ingredients in +Z Boost Zinc Complex by Shaklee
These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Tablet(s) Dosage formTablet Or Pill Servings per container120 Amounts shown are per serving.
Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.
Zinc
Interacts with67 drugs
Zinc is an essential mineral that your body needs for immune function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Most people get enough from food, but suppleme...
Zinc monograph & interactionsCalcium
Interacts with168 drugs
Calcium is an essential mineral your body needs for strong bones, nerve signaling, and muscle function, and supplements can help fill gaps when diet f...
Calcium monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Croscarmellose Sodium. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
+Z Boost Zinc Complex by Shaklee Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
+Z Boost Zinc Complex by Shaklee contains two active ingredients — zinc and calcium — and both have documented interactions with medications.
The most serious concern involves calcium with two HIV integrase inhibitors: dolutegravir (Tivicay) and elvitegravir (Vitekta). Calcium can reduce blood levels of these drugs by up to 40%, which may compromise their effectiveness.
You'll need to space doses carefully — at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after calcium for dolutegravir, and 2 hours before or after for elvitegravir.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Zinc interacts with multiple antibiotic classes at Moderate severity. Quinolone antibiotics, tetracycline antibiotics, and cephalexin all form complexes with zinc in your stomach that block absorption of both the antibiotic and the zinc.
A similar issue occurs with penicillamine (used for rheumatoid arthritis and heavy metal poisoning). Zinc also modestly reduces levels of ritonavir (an HIV protease inhibitor), and theoretically may interfere with integrase inhibitors and cisplatin (a cancer drug).
Calcium carries additional Moderate interactions with the thyroid medication levothyroxine (Synthroid), the heart medication sotalol, and the calcium-regulating drug calcipotriene. Calcium may also theoretically affect diltiazem (a heart medication) and raltegravir (another HIV drug).
The IV antibiotic ceftriaxone (Rocephin) poses a Major risk if given intravenously within 48 hours of IV calcium.
Altogether, these interactions span 179 individual medications. Use the medication checker on this page to look up your exact prescriptions before starting this product.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against +Z Boost Zinc Complex?
Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.
Go to the checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in +Z Boost Zinc Complex interact with 181 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 2 ingredients in +Z Boost Zinc Complex interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Calcium Zinc
CeftriaxoneRocephin
How Ceftriaxone interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumCeftriaxone (rocephin) Major
Interaction Summary
Co-administration of intravenous calcium and ceftriaxone can result in precipitation of a ceftriaxone-calcium salt in the lungs and kidneys.
Read the full Calcium + Ceftriaxone interactionCobicistat, Elvitegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide FumarateGenvoya
How Cobicistat, Elvitegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide Fumarate interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumElvitegravir (vitekta), Bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir Alafenamide (biktarvy) Major
Interaction Summary
Calcium seems to reduce levels of elvitegravir.
Read the full Calcium + Cobicistat, Elvitegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide Fumarate interactionZincBictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir Alafenamide (biktarvy) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, zinc might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption.
Read the full Zinc + Cobicistat, Elvitegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide Fumarate interactionDolutegravirTivicay
How Dolutegravir interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumDolutegravir (tivicay) Major
Interaction Summary
Calcium seems to reduce levels of dolutegravir.
Read the full Calcium + Dolutegravir interactionDolutegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir AlafenamideDolutegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide
How Dolutegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumDolutegravir (tivicay), Bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir Alafenamide (biktarvy) Major
Interaction Summary
Calcium seems to reduce levels of dolutegravir.
Read the full Calcium + Dolutegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide interactionZincBictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir Alafenamide (biktarvy) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, zinc might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption.
Read the full Zinc + Dolutegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide interactionDolutegravir, RilpivirineJuluca
How Dolutegravir, Rilpivirine interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumDolutegravir (tivicay) Major
Interaction Summary
Calcium seems to reduce levels of dolutegravir.
Read the full Calcium + Dolutegravir, Rilpivirine interactionElvitegravirVitekta
How Elvitegravir interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumElvitegravir (vitekta) Major
Interaction Summary
Calcium seems to reduce levels of elvitegravir.
Read the full Calcium + Elvitegravir interactionElvitegravir, Cobicistat, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Disoproxil FumarateStribild
How Elvitegravir, Cobicistat, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumElvitegravir (vitekta), Bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir Alafenamide (biktarvy) Major
Interaction Summary
Calcium seems to reduce levels of elvitegravir.
Read the full Calcium + Elvitegravir, Cobicistat, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate interactionZincBictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir Alafenamide (biktarvy) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, zinc might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption.
Read the full Zinc + Elvitegravir, Cobicistat, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate interactionAlendronateBinosto, Fosamax
How Alendronate interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumBisphosphonates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium reduces the absorption of bisphosphonates.
Read the full Calcium + Alendronate interactionAlendronate Sodium
How Alendronate Sodium interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumBisphosphonates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium reduces the absorption of bisphosphonates.
Read the full Calcium + Alendronate Sodium interactionAlendronate Sodium, CholecalciferolFosamax Plus D
How Alendronate Sodium, Cholecalciferol interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumBisphosphonates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium reduces the absorption of bisphosphonates.
Read the full Calcium + Alendronate Sodium, Cholecalciferol interactionAlginic Acid, Aluminum HydroxideRafton
How Alginic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Alginic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide interactionAluminum Acetate, Benzethonium ChlorideBuro-Sol Otic Solution
How Aluminum Acetate, Benzethonium Chloride interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Aluminum Acetate, Benzethonium Chloride interactionAluminum ChlorideAluminum Chloride, Anhydrol Forte, Driclor, Drysol
How Aluminum Chloride interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Aluminum Chloride interactionAluminum HydroxideAlu-Cap, Amphojel, Gaviscon
How Aluminum Hydroxide interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Aluminum Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #2
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug)Maalox, Mucogel
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (otc Drug)Mylanta
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (otc Drug) interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (otc Drug) interactionAluminum, CalciumDomeboro
How Aluminum, Calcium interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Aluminum, Calcium interactionAluminum, Magnesium (otc Drug)Almagel
How Aluminum, Magnesium (otc Drug) interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Aluminum, Magnesium (otc Drug) interactionAluminum, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug)Wingel
How Aluminum, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Aluminum, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interactionAmiloride, HydrochlorothiazideAmil-Co, Amilzide, Moduret 25, Moduretic
How Amiloride, Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumThiazide Diuretics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Read the full Calcium + Amiloride, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionZincAmiloride (midamor) Minor
Interaction Summary
Amiloride can modestly reduce zinc excretion and increase zinc levels.
Read the full Zinc + Amiloride, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionAmphotericin, TetracyclineMysteclin-F
How Amphotericin, Tetracycline interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumTetracycline Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics.
Read the full Calcium + Amphotericin, Tetracycline interactionZincTetracycline Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Zinc might reduce levels of tetracycline antibiotics.
Read the full Zinc + Amphotericin, Tetracycline interactionAspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #3
How Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAtenolol, ChlortalidoneAtenixCo, Tenoret 50, Totaretic
How Atenolol, Chlortalidone interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumThiazide Diuretics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Read the full Calcium + Atenolol, Chlortalidone interactionAtenolol, ChlorthalidoneTenoretic
How Atenolol, Chlorthalidone interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumThiazide Diuretics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Read the full Calcium + Atenolol, Chlorthalidone interactionAzilsartan, ChlorthalidoneEdarbyclor
How Azilsartan, Chlorthalidone interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumThiazide Diuretics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Read the full Calcium + Azilsartan, Chlorthalidone interactionBenazepril, HydrochlorothiazideLotensin HCT
How Benazepril, Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumThiazide Diuretics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Read the full Calcium + Benazepril, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionBendroflumethiazideAprinox, Naturetin, Neo-NaClex
How Bendroflumethiazide interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumThiazide Diuretics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Read the full Calcium + Bendroflumethiazide interactionBendroflumethiazide, NadololCorzide
How Bendroflumethiazide, Nadolol interacts with +Z Boost Zinc Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumThiazide Diuretics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Read the full Calcium + Bendroflumethiazide, Nadolol interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in +Z Boost Zinc Complex with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.
Calcium
Ceftriaxone (Rocephin)
Co-administration of intravenous calcium and ceftriaxone can result in precipitation of a ceftriaxone-calcium salt in the lungs and kidneys.
Avoid administering intravenous calcium in any form, such as parenteral nutrition or Lactated Ringers, within 48 hours of intravenous ceftriaxone. Case reports in neonates show that administering intravenous ceftriaxone and calcium can result in precipitation of a ceftriaxone-calcium salt in the lungs and kidneys. In several cases, neonates have died as a result of this interaction. So far there are no reports in adults; however, there is still concern that this interaction might occur in adults.
Dolutegravir (Tivicay)
Calcium seems to reduce levels of dolutegravir.
Advise patients to take dolutegravir either 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking calcium supplements. Pharmacokinetic research suggests that taking calcium carbonate 1200 mg concomitantly with dolutegravir 50 mg reduces plasma levels of dolutegravir by almost 40%. Calcium appears to decrease levels of dolutegravir through chelation.
Elvitegravir (Vitekta)
Calcium seems to reduce levels of elvitegravir.
Advise patients to take elvitegravir either 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking calcium supplements. Pharmacokinetic research suggests that taking calcium along with elvitegravir can reduce blood levels of elvitegravir through chelation.
Aluminum
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity. Other types of calcium do not increase aluminum absorption.
Calcium citrate can increase the absorption of aluminum when taken with aluminum hydroxide. The increase in aluminum levels may become toxic, particularly in individuals with kidney disease. However, the effect of calcium citrate on aluminum absorption is due to the citrate anion rather than calcium cation. Calcium acetate does not appear to increase aluminum absorption.
Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)
Calcium might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption when taken in a fasting state.
Advise patients that bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide and calcium can be taken together if taken with food. However, if taken on an empty stomach, bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide should not be taken with, or 2 hours after, calcium containing products.
Bisphosphonates
Calcium reduces the absorption of bisphosphonates.
Advise patients to take bisphosphonates at least 30 minutes before calcium, but preferably at a different time of day. Calcium supplements decrease absorption of bisphosphonates.
Calcipotriene (Dovonex)
Taking calcipotriene with calcium might increase the risk for hypercalcemia.
Calcipotriene is a vitamin D analog used topically for psoriasis. It can be absorbed in sufficient amounts to cause systemic effects, including hypercalcemia. Theoretically, combining calcipotriene with calcium supplements might increase the risk of hypercalcemia.
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Using intravenous calcium with digoxin might increase the risk of fatal cardiac arrhythmias.
Hypercalcemia increases the risk of fatal cardiac arrhythmias with digoxin. However, one retrospective analysis of clinical data suggests that intravenous calcium does not increase the risk of dysrhythmias or mortality in patients receiving digoxin.
Diltiazem (Cardizem, Others)
Theoretically, calcium may reduce the therapeutic effects of diltiazem.
Hypercalcemia can reduce the effectiveness of verapamil in atrial fibrillation. Theoretically, calcium might increase this risk of hypercalcemia and reduce the effectiveness of diltiazem.
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption and effectiveness of levothyroxine.
Advise patients to take levothyroxine and calcium supplements at least 4 hours apart. Calcium reduces levothyroxine absorption, probably by forming insoluble complexes. Calcium carbonate supplements reduce effectiveness of levothyroxine in patients with hypothyroidism.
Lithium
Theoretically, concomitant use of calcium and lithium may increase this risk of hypercalcemia.
Clinical research suggests that long-term use of lithium may cause hypercalcemia in 10% to 60% of patients. Theoretically, concomitant use of lithium and calcium supplements may further increase this risk.
Quinolone Antibiotics
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of quinolone antibiotics.
Advise patients to take oral quinolones at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium supplements or calcium-fortified foods. Taking calcium at the same time as oral quinolones can reduce quinolone absorption. Calcium binds to quinolones in the gut.
Raltegravir (Isentress)
Calcium may reduce levels of raltegravir.
Pharmacokinetic research shows that taking a single dose of calcium carbonate 3000 mg along with raltegravir 400 mg twice daily modestly decreases the mean area under the curve of raltegravir, but the decrease does not necessitate a dose adjustment of raltegravir. However, a case of elevated HIV-1 RNA levels and documented resistance to raltegravir has been reported for a patient taking calcium carbonate 1 gram three times daily plus vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) 400 IU three times daily in combination with raltegravir 400 mg twice daily for 11 months. It is thought that calcium reduced raltegravir levels by chelation, leading to treatment failure.
Sotalol (Betapace)
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of sotalol.
Advise patients to separate doses by at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium. Calcium appears to reduce the absorption of sotalol, probably by forming insoluble complexes.
Tetracycline Antibiotics
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics.
Advise patients to take oral tetracyclines at least 2 hours before, or 4-6 hours after calcium supplements. Taking calcium at the same time as oral tetracyclines can reduce tetracycline absorption. Calcium binds to tetracyclines in the gut.
Thiazide Diuretics
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Thiazides reduce calcium excretion by the kidneys. Using thiazides along with moderately large amounts of calcium carbonate increases the risk of milk-alkali syndrome (hypercalcemia, metabolic alkalosis, renal failure). Patients may need to have their serum calcium levels and/or parathyroid function monitored regularly.
Verapamil (Calan, Others)
Theoretically, calcium may reduce the therapeutic effects of verapamil.
Hypercalcemia can reduce the effectiveness of verapamil in atrial fibrillation. Theoretically, use of calcium supplements may increase this risk of hypercalcemia and reduce the effectiveness of verapamil.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Intravenous calcium may decrease the effects of calcium channel blockers; oral calcium is unlikely to have this effect.
Intravenous calcium is used to decrease the effects of calcium channel blockers in the management of overdose. Intravenous calcium gluconate has been used before intravenous verapamil (Isoptin) to prevent or reduce the hypotensive effects without affecting the antiarrhythmic effects. But there is no evidence that dietary or supplemental calcium when taken orally interacts with calcium channel blockers.
Zinc
Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)
Theoretically, zinc might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption.
Advise patients that bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide should be taken at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after zinc containing products.
Cephalexin (Keflex)
Zinc might decrease cephalexin levels by chelating with cephalexin in the gut and preventing its absorption.
A pharmacokinetic study shows that zinc sulfate 250 mg taken concomitantly with cephalexin 500 mg decreases peak levels of cephalexin by 31% and reduces the exposure to cephalexin by 27%. Also, taking zinc sulfate 3 hours before cephalexin decreases peak levels of cephalexin by 11% and reduces the exposure to cephalexin by 18%. By decreasing cephalexin levels, zinc might increase the risk of treatment failure. This effect does not occur when zinc is taken 3 hours after the cephalexin dose. To avoid an interaction, advise patients take zinc sulfate 3 hours after taking cephalexin.
Cisplatin (Platinol-Aq)
Theoretically, zinc might interfere with the therapeutic effects of cisplatin.
Animal research suggests that zinc stimulates tumor cell production of the protein metallothionein, which binds and inactivates cisplatin. It is not known whether zinc supplements or high dietary zinc intake can cause clinically significant interference with cisplatin therapy. Cisplatin might also increase zinc excretion.
Integrase Inhibitors
Theoretically, taking zinc along with integrase inhibitors might decrease the levels and clinical effects of these drugs.
Zinc is a divalent cation. Pharmacokinetic studies have shown that other divalent cations such as calcium and iron can decrease blood levels of the integrase inhibitor dolutegravir through chelation.
Penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)
Zinc might reduce the levels and clinical effects of penicillamine.
By forming an insoluble complex with penicillamine, zinc interferes with penicillamine absorption and activity. Zinc supplements reduce the efficacy of low-dose penicillamine (0.5-1 gram/day), but do not seem to affect higher doses (1-2.75 gram/day), provided dosing times are separated. Advise patients to take zinc and penicillamine at least 2 hours apart.
Quinolone Antibiotics
Zinc can decrease the levels and clinical effects of quinolones antibiotics.
Quinolones form complexes with zinc in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing absorption of both the quinolone and zinc if taken at the same time. Advise patients to take these drugs at least 2 hours before, or 4-6 hours after, zinc supplements.
Ritonavir (Norvir)
Zinc modestly reduces levels of ritonavir.
Clinical research shows that zinc might reduce serum ritonavir levels by chelating with ritonavir in the gut and preventing its absorption. In patients with HIV, ritonavir is taken with atazanavir to prevent the metabolism and increase the effects of atazanavir. A pharmacokinetic study shows that, in patients being treated with atazanavir/ritonavir, co-administration of zinc sulfate (Solvazinc tablets) 125 mg as a single dose or as multiple daily doses for 2 weeks reduces plasma levels of ritonavir by about 16%. However, atazanavir levels still remains high enough to prevent HIV virus replication. Therefore, the decrease in ritonavir levels is not likely to be clinically significant.
Tetracycline Antibiotics
Zinc might reduce levels of tetracycline antibiotics.
Tetracyclines form complexes with zinc in the gastrointestinal tract, which can reduce absorption of both the tetracycline and zinc when taken at the same time. Taking zinc sulfate 200 mg with tetracycline reduces absorption of the antibiotic by 30% to 40%. Demeclocycline and minocycline cause a similar interaction. However, doxycycline does not seem to interact significantly with zinc. Advise patients to take tetracyclines at least 2 hours before, or 4-6 hours after, zinc supplements to avoid any interactions.
Amiloride (Midamor)
Amiloride can modestly reduce zinc excretion and increase zinc levels.
Clinical research shows that amiloride can reduce urinary zinc excretion, especially at doses of 10 mg per day or more. This zinc-sparing effect can help to counteract zinc losses caused by thiazide diuretics, but it is unlikely to cause zinc toxicity at usual amiloride doses. The other potassium-sparing diuretics, spironolactone (Aldactone) and triamterene (Dyrenium), do not seem to have a zinc-sparing effect.
Atazanavir (Reyataz)
Zinc modestly reduces levels of atazanavir, although this effect does not seem to be clinically significant.
Clinical research shows that zinc might decrease serum atazanavir levels by chelating with atazanavir in the gut and preventing its absorption. Although a single dose of zinc sulfate (Solvazinc tablets) 125 mg orally does not affect atazanavir concentrations in patients being treated with atazanavir/ritonavir, co-administration of zinc sulfate 125 mg daily for 2 weeks reduces plasma levels of atazanavir by about 22% in these patients. However, despite this decrease, atazanavir levels still remain at high enough concentrations for the prevention of HIV virus replication.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for +Z Boost Zinc Complex, from the product label.
Shaklee
See all Shaklee products- Name
- Shaklee Corporation
- Street Address
- 4747 Willow Road
- City
- Pleasanton
- State
- CA
- ZipCode
- 94588
- Phone Number
- 925.734.3638
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The Full Monographs Behind +Z Boost Zinc Complex’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Zinc
Interacts with 67 drugsZinc is an essential mineral that your body needs for immune function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Most people get enough from food, but supplements can help correct or prevent a defici...
Read the full Zinc monograph → Herb & supplement monographCalcium
Interacts with 168 drugsCalcium is an essential mineral your body needs for strong bones, nerve signaling, and muscle function, and supplements can help fill gaps when diet falls short. Most people do best getting...
Read the full Calcium monograph →Sources & How We Checked
+Z Boost Zinc Complex's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.
The 150 references behind this product’s interaction data
Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.
Zinc 88 references
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DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
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