Zinc Orotate, with the CAS number 68399-76-8, is an organic zinc salt formed by the combination of zinc ions and orotic acid, also known as Zinc 1,2,3,6-tetrahydro-2,6-dioxopyrimidine-4-carboxylate. Its molecular formula is C₁₀H₈ZnN₄O₈, and its molecular weight is 399.52 g/mol. It integrates the physiological functions of zinc and orotic acid, featuring high bioavailability, good biocompatibility, and stable chemical properties, making it widely applied in pharmaceuticals, nutritional supplements, and health care fields.
Physically, Zinc Orotate appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder or fine granular solid. It has a melting point of approximately 285-290℃ (decomposition) and is slightly soluble in cold water, more soluble in hot water, while slightly soluble in ethanol and insoluble in non-polar solvents. It is odorless and tasteless, with low hygroscopicity and good stability under normal temperature and pressure when stored properly, facilitating easy handling, storage, and formulation into various dosage forms such as tablets, capsules, and oral suspensions.
Chemically, it is a stable organic zinc complex, where orotic acid acts as a chelating agent to bind zinc ions, significantly improving the solubility and bioavailability of zinc compared to inorganic zinc salts (e.g., zinc oxide, zinc sulfate). It retains the core functional groups of orotic acid (pyrimidine ring, carboxyl group) and zinc ions, enabling it to participate in various physiological processes in the body, including immune regulation, enzyme activation, and nucleic acid synthesis.
Its core applications focus on pharmaceuticals and nutritional supplements. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used as a raw material for preparing drugs to supplement zinc deficiency, support immune function, and promote tissue repair. Zinc is essential for maintaining immune system integrity, regulating enzyme activity, and supporting skin health, while orotic acid promotes nucleic acid synthesis and cell regeneration, enhancing the absorption of zinc and reducing potential gastrointestinal discomfort.
In nutritional supplements, it is widely used in health products to provide targeted zinc supplementation, suitable for populations such as children, adolescents, pregnant women, and those with zinc deficiency. It also supports skin health, cognitive development, and metabolic balance. Safety-wise, it is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) under normal dosage, with low toxicity and no obvious irritation. It should be stored in a sealed, cool, dry, and dark environment, away from oxidants, moisture, and high temperatures to prevent decomposition. With its high bioavailability and dual physiological benefits, it is a valuable raw material in the health care and pharmaceutical industries.