Effect of Frusemide on Serum and Urinary Zinc levels in Rabbits

Introduction: Zinc is an essential trace element playing a vital role in the maintenance of health. Frusemide, a loop diuretic, is known to deplete sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium levels. But, very few reports exist on its effect on Zinc levels. Hence, this study was performed on rabbits to investigate the same in detail. Material & Methods: Healthy adult New Zealand White rabbits (n=6 per group) were treated with Normal saline (2 ml kg-1) and Frusemide (5, 10 or 15 mg kg-1 each) intraperitoneally. Their serum and urinary zinc levels were studied by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. Analysis of serum Zinc levels was also done after dietary Zinc supplementation for 20 days. Results: A dose-dependent decrease in serum Zinc levels owing to increased urinary Zinc excretion was observed. Both the urinary volume and urinary Zinc concentration increased dose-dependently. The percent fall in serum Zinc occurred in proportion to the pre-treatment serum values. Administration of Zinc in the diet restored the serum Zinc levels to normal. Conclusion: Frusemide may be responsible for Zinc depletion. Supplementation of Zinc may help to prevent the same in patients on prolonged Frusemide therapy.