The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is well established as the primary causative agent in both warts and cervical cancer. Although cervical high risk HPV (hrHPV) infections have a high rate of spontaneous resolution this takes time and the infection can cause cervical cells to progress to precancerous and cancerous lesions. Zinc has been shown to play a central role in immunity. This study is to determine if oral zinc sulfate can improve clearance rates of high risk HPV versus placebo.
Upon enrollment eligible participants will be randomized and given a three-month supply of zinc sulfate or placebo to be taken as directed. They will have zinc serum lab testing at enrollment and upon study completion. Patients will also be asked to complete short questionnaires and to make study staff aware of any side effects they should experience.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
21
Participant will take one 220mg tablet twice daily for three months.
Participant will take one tablet twice daily for three months.
Spectrum Health
Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States
Clearance rates of high risk HPV
Time frame: During 3 month treatment period
Progression versus Regression
Incidence of progression versus regression of cervical changes after treatment with oral zinc sulfate
Time frame: During 3 month treatment period
Side Effects
Rates of side effects from zinc sulfate
Time frame: After 3 month treatment period
Compliance Rates
Examine rates of patients finishing the 3-month course of zinc sulfate
Time frame: After 3 month treatment period
Parity
Examine the correlation of parity on HPV clearance
Time frame: After 3 month treatment period
Low Zinc Levels and Persistence
Examine potential correlation between low serum levels of zinc and persistence of HPV.
Time frame: After 3 month treatment period
Zinc Levels and Regression
Examine the relation between zinc levels before and after treatment and the relation to regression of HPV.
Time frame: After 3 month treatment period
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