Zinc sulphate: A reasonable choice for depression management in patients with multiple sclerosis: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Abstract Introduction Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is known as one of the most common psychiatric disorders in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). In recent years, zinc has been found to have beneficial effects on psychopathology and the therapy of depression. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of zinc supplement on depression and neurological signs in patients with MS. Methods The present randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed on 43 patients with MS and who also demonstrated MDD based on the Beck questionnaire. These patients were randomly selected and were divided into two groups: the placebo group ( n  = 22) and the intervention group ( n  = 21). The patients received either zinc sulphate (220 mg containing 50 mg zinc element) or a placebo for 12 weeks. Clinical examinations were obtained in terms of abnormal ocular movement, muscle power, and gait disorder. Results The results indicated that in the patients who received the zinc supplement, the mean score of depression was reduced compared to those in the placebo group, whereas the neurological examinations revealed that there were no differences between the treatment and control groups. Conclusion Therefore, the zinc supplementation is an appropriate choice for the depression management in patients with MS.