Background and Objectives: Neuropathy is a common complication in hemodialysis patients. The purpose of this investigation is examination of the effect of zinc supplementation on nerve conduction velocity in chronic hemodialysis patients.

  Methods: In this clinical trial 65 chronic hemodialysis patients were studied in two groups: Group one (35 patients) received 100 mg placebo (corn starch) and group two (30 patients) received 100 mg elemental zinc (as zinc sulfate) daily for 2 months. The placebo and supplement discontinued in the next 2 months. Then, the study continued for two other months in the cross-over form group one received 100 mg zinc and group two received 100 mg placebo daily for 2 months . The function of central and peripheral nerves were evaluated at the 0^th, 60^th, 120^th, 180^th days by nerve conduction velocity of electrodiagnostic test .

  Results: The function of nerves didn’t change significantly or some parameters markedly decreased in placebo period in both groups. Significant increase was found in the function of nerves during zinc supplementation period in both groups.

  Conclusion: These data indicate that zinc supplementation improve neuron function in patients undergoing hemodialysis