According to WHO recommendations adopted by the Government of India, what dose of elemental zinc should be given to a 2-year-old child being treated for acute diarrhea?

• A 10 mg once daily for 10 days
• B 20 mg once daily for 14 days ✓
• C 20 mg twice daily for 5 days
• D 40 mg once daily for 14 days

Explanation

For treatment of acute diarrhea, children above 6 months of age receive elemental zinc 20 mg once daily for 14 days, while infants below 6 months receive 10 mg daily for 14 days. Zinc reduces diarrheal duration and severity and prevents recurrence for 2 to 3 months. The 10-day duration and twice-daily regimens are common incorrect alternatives that appear in exam options.

Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 9th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.