Zinc Picolinate | Chelated Zinc | High Bioavailability CAS 17949-65-4

Product Name: Zinc Picolinate
CAS No.: 17949-65-4
Ligand: Picolinic acid (C₆H₅NO₂ – pyridine-2-carboxylic acid)
Complex Structure: Zn²⁺ coordinated by two picolinate anions [Zn(C₆H₄NO₂)₂]
Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₈N₂O₄Zn
Molecular Weight: Approximately 309.6 g/mol
Appearance: White crystalline powder
Solubility: Approximately 0.5 g/L in water at 25 °C; freely soluble in dilute acids and alcohols
Stability: Non-hygroscopic, stable when stored in dry conditions; decomposes upon strong heating to form zinc oxide and degradation products

1. Introduction

Zinc picolinate is a chelated salt of zinc and picolinic acid (pyridine-2-carboxylic acid). It has high bioavailability compared to inorganic forms of zinc. It is used in nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals to correct zinc deficiency, support immunity, and maintain skin, hair, and nail health.

Zinc participates in over 300 enzymatic reactions (DNA replication, protein synthesis, wound healing). With insufficient dietary intake, immunodeficiencies develop, tissue regeneration slows, and skin and hair condition deteriorates. Chelated forms (picolinate, gluconate, citrate) provide better intestinal absorption; among them, picolinate is often considered the most effective.

2. Synthesis

Reaction of zinc oxide (or hydroxide) with excess picolinic acid in water or alcohol solution with heating, followed by crystallization.

3. Properties

• Appearance: White crystalline powder

• Molecular Weight: Approximately 309.6 g/mol

• Solubility: Approximately 0.5 g/L in water at 25 °C; freely soluble in dilute acids and alcohols

• Stability: Non-hygroscopic, stable when stored in dry conditions; decomposes upon strong heating

4. Applications

• Nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals: Oral supplements for zinc deficiency prevention and correction (5–30 mg elemental zinc per day)

• Immunology: Support of non-specific and adaptive immunity, reduction of common cold duration

• Dermatology: Wound healing acceleration, acne treatment, nail and hair strengthening

• Sports nutrition: Testosterone synthesis support, anabolic process support, post-exercise recovery

5. Conclusion

Zinc picolinate is one of the most studied and effective forms of zinc for oral administration. It ensures high absorption and good tolerability. With long-term use of high doses (>40 mg elemental zinc per day), monitoring of copper and iron levels is recommended to avoid their deficiency.