Gut Health & Digestive
Zinc Carnosine (PepZin GI)
Also known as: PepZin GI · Polaprezinc · Zinc-L-carnosine
A chelate of zinc and carnosine that adheres to the gastric mucosa, protecting and healing the stomach lining. Approved as a drug in Japan for gastric ulcers.
Effective Dose
75mg (37.5mg zinc + 37.5mg carnosine) twice daily
per clinical evidence
Evidence Level
Moderate
Gut Health & Digestive
Mechanism
Gastric mucosal protection, H. pylori inhibition, mucosal healing
primary action
Best For
Gastric ulcers
NSAID-induced gut damage, H. pylori, Leaky gut
This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.
What Is Zinc Carnosine (PepZin GI)?
Zinc carnosine (polaprezinc) is a unique chelate where zinc and L-carnosine form a polymeric structure with exceptional gastric mucosal adherence. It is approved as a prescription drug in Japan for gastric ulcers and H. pylori treatment. Athletic use has grown due to evidence for preventing NSAID-induced gastric damage and reducing exercise-induced gut permeability.
How It Works: The Science
Zinc carnosine adheres to the gastric mucosa (particularly at ulcer sites) and slowly releases zinc and carnosine. Zinc supports mucus secretion and tight junction integrity; carnosine scavenges free radicals and inhibits IL-8 production (reducing inflammatory neutrophil recruitment). It also inhibits H. pylori adhesion to gastric epithelium.
Primary Mechanism
Gastric mucosal protection, H. pylori inhibition, mucosal healing
Evidence-Based Benefits
Dosage Guide
Effective Dose
75mg (37.5mg zinc + 37.5mg carnosine) twice daily
75mg zinc carnosine (PepZin GI) twice daily between meals or on an empty stomach. Contains ~37.5mg zinc and ~37.5mg carnosine per 75mg. Monitor total zinc intake.
Safety Profile & Side Effects
Safe at recommended doses. Total zinc from all sources should not exceed 40mg/day (UL). Monitor for copper depletion with long-term use. Approved drug in Japan at these doses.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It
Athletes using NSAIDs for pain management (prevents GI side effects), those with ulcers or H. pylori, and anyone with gut permeability concerns from high-volume training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Ingredients
Medical Disclaimer
Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →