We explored how zinc lozenges affect the duration of the common cold through a detailed analysis of multiple trials. In particular, we focused on the Mossad (1996) trial involving zinc gluconate lozenges, which revealed an average reduction of cold duration by about 4.0 days. While that sounds promising, our findings through a quantile treatment effect (QTE) analysis tell a more nuanced story.
Interestingly, the QTE analysis showed that for individuals suffering from lengthy colds lasting 15 to 17 days, the zinc lozenges could shorten their illness by as much as 8 days. On the flip side, those with shorter, 2-day colds only experienced a 1-day reduction in sickness. This suggests that while zinc may help, its effectiveness varies significantly depending on the initial duration of the cold, making the overall average effect less informative than we might think.
Our examination extended to three trials that used zinc acetate lozenges, yielding a similar average reduction of around 2.7 days. However, again, those averages concealed varying effects for short and long colds, highlighting the importance of looking beyond simple averages in treatment studies.
Overall, we observed that zinc lozenges can indeed help with cold duration, but the extent of that help is very much dependent on how long a person has been suffering. This approach to understanding treatment effects through QTE analysis could have important implications not just for cold treatment but also for analyzing other health outcomes.
Read More
8
Vitamin C reduces cold severity
Vitamin C reduces the severity of common colds: a meta-analysis.
We explored how vitamin C affects the severity of common colds through a comprehensive review of available studies. By including only randomized, placebo-controlled trials where participants received at least 1 gram of vitamin C daily, we aimed to investigate both the overall duration of colds and the intensity of symptoms experienced.
Our analysis found that vitamin C significantly reduced the severity of cold symptoms by about 15%. Interestingly, it appears that the benefits are more pronounced for those experiencing severe symptoms compared to mild ones. In specific comparisons, vitamin C didn’t substantially affect the duration of mild symptoms but had a notable impact on how long severe symptoms lasted.
This insight is crucial, as the common cold often leads to absenteeism at work and school, with more severe symptoms playing a key role in this setback. By highlighting vitamin C's greater effectiveness against intense cold symptoms, we suggest that future research should continue to look into how this vitamin can be utilized in managing cold severity.
Read More
8
Vitamin C's potential benefits highlighted
Bias against Vitamin C in Mainstream Medicine: Examples from Trials of Vitamin C for Infections.
We assessed the longstanding debate about vitamin C’s effectiveness in treating the common cold. This exploration reveals that evidence has consistently indicated that vitamin C can indeed help reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms in certain circumstances.
However, despite this evidence, mainstream medicine has often favored what we call eminence-based medicine, relying on influential figures rather than empirical data. The skepticism surrounding vitamin C largely traces back to three pivotal studies published in 1975, two in JAMA and one in the American Journal of Medicine. These studies have shaped the narrative in textbooks and nutritional guidelines, despite exhibiting notable flaws that we carefully examined.
Furthermore, we highlighted misleading reporting in recent randomized trials and critical editorials published in JAMA regarding vitamin C. While our critique largely focuses on this journal, it reflects a broader trend across medical literature, indicating a possible bias against acknowledging the benefits of vitamin C in fighting colds.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Cold remedy effective
232 people found this helpful
The firm is reputable, and this complex effectively combats colds. I dissolve 1-2 tablets 3-4 times a day at the first sign of illness, and I usually recover within 3-4 days.
Read More
9
Quick recovery support
61 people found this helpful
This complex is a godsend! It wonderfully alleviates symptoms of the common cold. I take 1 tablet 2-4 times a day at the onset of a cough and usually feel back to normal in 2-3 days. Start taking it early for the best results!
Read More
9
Magic pill for colds
9 people found this helpful
Beautiful! During cold season, I give half a tablet to my child and a whole one to adults at the first hint of illness for five days. This magic pill is indispensable for prevention and recovery from the common cold.
We explored the effectiveness of zinc in combination with herbal polyphenols against respiratory RNA viruses, including the common cold. In this study, the researchers combined zinc picolinate with various flavonoids to see if it could reduce viral replication and load without harming healthy cells.
The results were quite promising, showing a significant reduction of 50-95% in the genome replication levels of viruses like the human coronavirus OC43, influenza A virus, and human metapneumovirus. This suggests that zinc, when paired with appropriate compounds, may play a beneficial role in treating infections that lead to the common cold.
However, it's important to note that while the study shows a notable decrease in viral activity, it did not specifically isolate the effects of zinc alone. Thus, we cannot definitively state that zinc by itself is effective against the common cold without considering the contributions of the other substances involved.
Overall, this research opens the door for developing a potential treatment that is not toxic and sourced from natural ingredients, which could be effective against various RNA viruses with the hope of remaining effective even amidst mutating strains.
Read More
9
Zinc shortens cold duration variability
Quantile Treatment Effect of Zinc Lozenges on Common Cold Duration: A Novel Approach to Analyze the Effect of Treatment on Illness Duration.
We explored how zinc lozenges affect the duration of the common cold through a detailed analysis of multiple trials. In particular, we focused on the Mossad (1996) trial involving zinc gluconate lozenges, which revealed an average reduction of cold duration by about 4.0 days. While that sounds promising, our findings through a quantile treatment effect (QTE) analysis tell a more nuanced story.
Interestingly, the QTE analysis showed that for individuals suffering from lengthy colds lasting 15 to 17 days, the zinc lozenges could shorten their illness by as much as 8 days. On the flip side, those with shorter, 2-day colds only experienced a 1-day reduction in sickness. This suggests that while zinc may help, its effectiveness varies significantly depending on the initial duration of the cold, making the overall average effect less informative than we might think.
Our examination extended to three trials that used zinc acetate lozenges, yielding a similar average reduction of around 2.7 days. However, again, those averages concealed varying effects for short and long colds, highlighting the importance of looking beyond simple averages in treatment studies.
Overall, we observed that zinc lozenges can indeed help with cold duration, but the extent of that help is very much dependent on how long a person has been suffering. This approach to understanding treatment effects through QTE analysis could have important implications not just for cold treatment but also for analyzing other health outcomes.
Read More
9
Vitamin C aids common cold recovery
Vitamin C as a Supplementary Therapy in Relieving Symptoms of the Common Cold: A Meta-Analysis of 10 Randomized Controlled Trials.
We explored the potential benefits of vitamin C as a supplementary treatment for relieving common cold symptoms. By analyzing data from 10 randomized controlled trials, all focused on patients in China, we sought to understand how combining vitamin C with antiviral therapy might enhance recovery.
Our findings revealed that vitamin C supplementation could significantly improve overall efficacy, with a reported relative risk of 1.27. Moreover, it was shown to shorten the time it takes for symptoms to get better and for patients to heal, compared to antiviral therapy alone.
While vitamin C seems to have a positive impact when paired with antiviral drugs, it’s essential to note that its individual effects might not be fully clear due to the combined treatment approach used in the studies. Nonetheless, vitamin C presents itself as a promising addition to traditional cold treatments, helping patients manage their symptoms more effectively.
Read More
8
Zinc reduces cold duration
Zinc Supplementation Reduces Common Cold Duration among Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials with Micronutrients Supplementation.
We explored the impact of zinc supplementation on common cold symptoms through an extensive review of 20 randomized controlled trials. These studies focused on observing how micronutrients, especially zinc, can help manage the cold in healthy adults.
Our findings suggest that while zinc did not significantly prevent the incidence of cold or reduce symptom severity when compared to other micronutrients, it showed promising results in potentially shortening the duration of a cold. Specifically, we observed that zinc could cut down the duration of cold symptoms by approximately 2.25 days when used alone.
This reduction in duration could have a meaningful impact on daily life and overall productivity for those affected by the common cold. It's noteworthy that while zinc proves beneficial, other vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin D did not show the same effectiveness in this context.
Read More
8
Vitamin C reduces cold severity
Vitamin C reduces the severity of common colds: a meta-analysis.
We explored how vitamin C affects the severity of common colds through a comprehensive review of available studies. By including only randomized, placebo-controlled trials where participants received at least 1 gram of vitamin C daily, we aimed to investigate both the overall duration of colds and the intensity of symptoms experienced.
Our analysis found that vitamin C significantly reduced the severity of cold symptoms by about 15%. Interestingly, it appears that the benefits are more pronounced for those experiencing severe symptoms compared to mild ones. In specific comparisons, vitamin C didn’t substantially affect the duration of mild symptoms but had a notable impact on how long severe symptoms lasted.
This insight is crucial, as the common cold often leads to absenteeism at work and school, with more severe symptoms playing a key role in this setback. By highlighting vitamin C's greater effectiveness against intense cold symptoms, we suggest that future research should continue to look into how this vitamin can be utilized in managing cold severity.
The firm is reputable, and this complex effectively combats colds. I dissolve 1-2 tablets 3-4 times a day at the first sign of illness, and I usually recover within 3-4 days.
Read More
9
Quick recovery support
61 people found this helpful
This complex is a godsend! It wonderfully alleviates symptoms of the common cold. I take 1 tablet 2-4 times a day at the onset of a cough and usually feel back to normal in 2-3 days. Start taking it early for the best results!
Read More
9
Magic pill for colds
9 people found this helpful
Beautiful! During cold season, I give half a tablet to my child and a whole one to adults at the first hint of illness for five days. This magic pill is indispensable for prevention and recovery from the common cold.
Read More
9
Prevents cold
6 people found this helpful
Delicious tablets with a slight sourness. They truly work; taking them at the start of a common cold helps prevent illness or allows for quicker recovery.
Read More
7.5
Helps with cold
6 people found this helpful
Excellent! These large, round, dark pink tablets have a pleasant berry flavour. They are hard, so it’s better to dissolve or chew them. They help me deal with the common cold. I give half a tablet to my 8-year-old child.
The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, primarily affecting the nose and throat. It's caused by a variety of viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most prevalent. Symptoms generally include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, sneezing, mild headache, and sometimes a low-grade fever. While the common cold is often mild and resolves on its own within a week or two, it can still be bothersome and impact daily activities.
Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. Preventative measures include frequent handwashing, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Since there is currently no cure for the common cold, treatment focuses on symptom relief through over-the-counter medications, adequate rest, and hydration. While colds may be uncomfortable, they are generally not serious; however, seeking medical attention may be necessary if symptoms worsen or persist for an extended period.
Zinc is a versatile metal known for its various applications in industry and health. It is a bluish-white metallic element represented by the symbol Zn and atomic number 30 on the periodic table. Zinc is primarily used for galvanizing steel to prevent rusting, in the manufacturing of alloys, and as a component in batteries. Additionally, zinc plays a crucial role in biological processes, making it an essential trace element in the human diet. It is involved in immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, and DNA synthesis, highlighting its importance in maintaining overall health and well-being.
Zinc has been studied for its potential benefits in reducing the duration and severity of the common cold. Several clinical trials suggest that taking zinc supplements may help shorten colds by up to one day when taken within the first 24 hours of symptom onset. Zinc may work by inhibiting the replication of rhinoviruses, which are common causes of the cold, and by modulating immune responses.
However, it's important to note that the evidence is mixed. Not all studies agree on zinc’s effectiveness, and some show minimal benefits. Additionally, taking zinc in excessive amounts can lead to adverse side effects, including nausea and a bad taste in the mouth. For those considering zinc supplements, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to determine appropriate dosages and to discuss any potential interactions with existing medications. Overall, while zinc may offer some relief for colds, it's best used as a part of a broader strategy that includes good hygiene, plenty of rest, and adequate hydration.
Based on user reviews, most individuals report experiencing results within 2-4 days after starting the supplement for common cold symptoms. For instance, one user mentioned that they typically recover within 3-4 days after taking 1-2 tablets several times a day at the first sign of illness Read Review. Another user echoed this sentiment, stating they usually feel back to normal within 2-3 days after beginning the supplement treatment Read Review.
Several other reviews reinforce this timeframe, suggesting that starting the supplement early at the initial onset of symptoms can lead to quicker recovery times. For example, one review highlights the importance of taking the product at the first hint of illness for better results Read Review. Overall, while individual responses may vary, the consensus is clear: using this supplement as soon as cold symptoms appear can significantly reduce the duration of illness.
Research suggests that zinc supplementation may provide some benefits for individuals dealing with the common cold, particularly in reducing the duration of symptoms rather than preventing the occurrence of colds altogether. A comprehensive analysis of various studies highlighted that while zinc does not significantly lower the overall risk of getting a cold, it has been shown to potentially shorten the duration of colds—finding an average reduction of about 2.25 days when used in certain formulations, such as lozenges [5]. Moreover, specific trials indicated that during extended colds, zinc could decrease the duration by even more substantial amounts, making it a potentially useful option for those already symptomatic [3].
However, it is important to contextualize these benefits. Some studies noted an increase in mild side effects, such as gastrointestinal discomfort, associated with zinc intake [1]. While the results hint at zinc's efficacy in shortening cold symptoms, it remains critical to note that these effects can vary significantly among individuals based on the initial duration of their colds [3]. Nevertheless, zinc is often included among over-the-counter treatments, indicating a general acceptance of its potential utility in managing cold symptoms [6]. Overall, while zinc may not prevent colds, it does hold some promise for those looking to alleviate symptoms once they occur.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report noticeable improvements in symptoms associated with the common cold after using the supplement. Users frequently mention that taking the tablets at the onset of symptoms significantly hastens recovery. For example, one user noted that they typically feel back to normal within 2-3 days by starting the supplement early and taking it consistently throughout the day Read Review. Another user echoed this, indicating a recovery period of approximately 3-4 days when they adhered to a specific dosage regimen Read Review.
Additionally, many reviews highlight the supplement's preventive effects, with several users reporting that continuous use during cold season helps to ward off illness altogether Read Review. The combination of zinc, vitamin C, and other vitamins is often credited for these positive outcomes. Users have also remarked on the palatable taste of the tablets, which makes adherence to the regimen easier Read Review. While these experiences may vary among individuals, the consensus is that early intervention with the supplement could lead to a shorter duration and severity of cold symptoms.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported positive experiences when combining this supplement with other vitamins and minerals for handling common cold symptoms. A number of users highlight the synergy of zinc with vitamin C, stating that together they significantly bolster the immune response. For instance, one reviewer noted that their doctor recommended taking zinc alongside vitamin C to effectively manage cold symptoms, and they have switched to this product, appreciating its pleasant taste and chewable format Read Review. Another user echoed this sentiment, mentioning that taking both zinc and vitamin C greatly supports their immune system, resulting in fewer instances of cold and flu symptoms Read Review.
Several users also point out the importance of starting the supplement regimen early, ideally at the first sign of illness. For example, one user described how they give half a tablet to children and a full tablet to adults during cold season as a preventive measure Read Review. Additionally, there are accounts of individuals combining this supplement with other health support strategies, which seem to enhance overall effectiveness. One user mentioned they took zinc along with calcium and magnesium and emphasized the importance of balancing these nutrients to avoid absorption issues Read Review. Overall, combining this supplement with others appears to be well-received among users for managing and preventing cold symptoms.
When it comes to zinc as a potential remedy for the common cold, research highlights that zinc lozenges can be effective in shortening the duration of cold symptoms. One notable study found that zinc gluconate lozenges can reduce the average duration of a cold by approximately 4 days compared to a placebo. The extent of this benefit can vary; for longer colds lasting 15 to 17 days, lozenges may cut down the illness by as much as 8 days, whereas those with shorter colds may see only about a 1-day reduction in symptoms [3]. Another study corroborates this, suggesting that zinc supplementation could shorten cold symptoms by around 2.25 days [5].
However, the research does indicate that while zinc may help alleviate the duration of cold symptoms, it does not significantly prevent the onset of colds themselves [1]. Hence, if you're looking for an effective natural supplement to reduce the length of time you're feeling under the weather, opting for zinc lozenges could be a smart choice. It's essential to keep in mind that results can vary based on individual experiences and the specific circumstances of each cold.
9
Cold remedy effective
232 people found this helpful
The firm is reputable, and this complex effectively combats colds. I dissolve 1-2 tablets 3-4 times a day at the first sign of illness, and I usually recover within 3-4 days.
9
Quick recovery support
61 people found this helpful
This complex is a godsend! It wonderfully alleviates symptoms of the common cold. I take 1 tablet 2-4 times a day at the onset of a cough and usually feel back to normal in 2-3 days. Start taking it early for the best results!
9
Magic pill for colds
9 people found this helpful
Beautiful! During cold season, I give half a tablet to my child and a whole one to adults at the first hint of illness for five days. This magic pill is indispensable for prevention and recovery from the common cold.
7.5
Adapts to cold
I take this regularly throughout the cold season to help my body adjust to winter and reduce the chances of illness.
7.5
Prevent overdosing
1 people found this helpful
The pink, cherry-flavoured lozenges are unexpectedly large. I take them at the first sign of a common cold, and they seem to help. It’s vital to avoid overdoing the duration of use, otherwise, I notice my hair becomes fragile.
7.5
Effective cherry taste
231 people found this helpful
Greetings. My doctor recommended zinc alongside vitamin C for cold symptoms. I’ve switched from another brand, and these tablets, which are large but chewable, have a pleasant cherry flavour. We are repeat customers and appreciate the manufacturer.
7.5
Reduced cold symptoms
210 people found this helpful
I’ve noticed fewer cold or flu symptoms, feeling better than ever. The tablets taste like candy, so I take them as a treat after meals, which helps satisfy my sweet cravings.
7.5
Effective for cold
2 people found this helpful
Zinc, combined with vitamin C and B6, is a beneficial formula for immunity and nerves. I took four tablets daily when I felt a sore throat, and by morning, it was gone. I’ve also found that calcium and magnesium help my nerves. This zinc complex is excellent for maintaining health, especially during fluctuating climates and the risk of food poisoning while travelling. Just remember, long-term zinc use can affect magnesium absorption.
8
Zinc reduces cold duration
Zinc Supplementation Reduces Common Cold Duration among Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials with Micronutrients Supplementation.
We explored the impact of zinc supplementation on common cold symptoms through an extensive review of 20 randomized controlled trials. These studies focused on observing how micronutrients, especially zinc, can help manage the cold in healthy adults.
Our findings suggest that while zinc did not significantly prevent the incidence of cold or reduce symptom severity when compared to other micronutrients, it showed promising results in potentially shortening the duration of a cold. Specifically, we observed that zinc could cut down the duration of cold symptoms by approximately 2.25 days when used alone.
This reduction in duration could have a meaningful impact on daily life and overall productivity for those affected by the common cold. It's noteworthy that while zinc proves beneficial, other vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin D did not show the same effectiveness in this context.
9
Zinc shortens cold duration variability
Quantile Treatment Effect of Zinc Lozenges on Common Cold Duration: A Novel Approach to Analyze the Effect of Treatment on Illness Duration.
We explored how zinc lozenges affect the duration of the common cold through a detailed analysis of multiple trials. In particular, we focused on the Mossad (1996) trial involving zinc gluconate lozenges, which revealed an average reduction of cold duration by about 4.0 days. While that sounds promising, our findings through a quantile treatment effect (QTE) analysis tell a more nuanced story.
Interestingly, the QTE analysis showed that for individuals suffering from lengthy colds lasting 15 to 17 days, the zinc lozenges could shorten their illness by as much as 8 days. On the flip side, those with shorter, 2-day colds only experienced a 1-day reduction in sickness. This suggests that while zinc may help, its effectiveness varies significantly depending on the initial duration of the cold, making the overall average effect less informative than we might think.
Our examination extended to three trials that used zinc acetate lozenges, yielding a similar average reduction of around 2.7 days. However, again, those averages concealed varying effects for short and long colds, highlighting the importance of looking beyond simple averages in treatment studies.
Overall, we observed that zinc lozenges can indeed help with cold duration, but the extent of that help is very much dependent on how long a person has been suffering. This approach to understanding treatment effects through QTE analysis could have important implications not just for cold treatment but also for analyzing other health outcomes.
4
Zinc may shorten cold duration
Zinc for prevention and treatment of the common cold.
We explored how zinc supplementation might impact the prevention and treatment of the common cold. Through a thorough examination of 34 studies involving over 8,500 participants, we aimed to understand whether zinc could effectively reduce the occurrence or duration of colds.
The studies included randomized controlled trials comparing zinc to placebo in both children and adults. Our findings indicate that while zinc may not significantly lower the risk of catching a cold, it could help reduce the duration of an ongoing cold. However, this benefit comes alongside an increase in non-serious side effects, such as an unpleasant taste and stomach issues.
It's important to note that many of these studies showed a wide range of interventions and outcomes, and some reporting was incomplete. Overall, our results suggest that zinc does not hold substantial promise for preventing colds, but it may help shorten the duration of symptoms once a cold strikes.
We observed that zinc has been highlighted as a potential remedy for alleviating symptoms of the common cold. The information indicates that zinc may play a significant role in treating cold symptoms, especially in adults. While conclusive and thorough evidence specifically isolating zinc's effects isn't entirely clear, it is often included among over-the-counter treatments that have shown effectiveness.
Zinc is typically administered to support quicker recovery from cold symptoms, which also include nasal congestion and sore throat. It’s essential that we keep in mind that not all evidence is of high quality, but some studies and anecdotal reports suggest that incorporating zinc may lead to some improvement in symptom management.
Furthermore, it's important to emphasize that when advising patients, we should be mindful of the limitations and mix of other treatments. Although zinc appears promising, it's crucial to inform individuals that effective treatment strategies extend beyond just zinc alone. While the potential benefits of zinc are appealing, more reliable research is necessary to fully endorse its effectiveness in cold treatment.
References
Nault D, Machingo TA, Shipper AG, Antiporta DA, Hamel C, et al. Zinc for prevention and treatment of the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2024;5:CD014914. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD014914.pub2
Kreiser T, Zaguri D, Sachdeva S, Zamostiano R, Mograbi J, et al. Inhibition of Respiratory RNA Viruses by a Composition of Ionophoric Polyphenols with Metal Ions. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022;15. doi:10.3390/ph15030377
Hemilä H, Chalker E, Tukiainen J. Quantile Treatment Effect of Zinc Lozenges on Common Cold Duration: A Novel Approach to Analyze the Effect of Treatment on Illness Duration. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13:817522. doi:10.3389/fphar.2022.817522
Murni IK, Prawirohartono EP, Triasih R. Potential Role of Vitamins and Zinc on Acute Respiratory Infections Including Covid-19. Glob Pediatr Health. 2021;8:2333794X211021739. doi:10.1177/2333794X211021739
Wang MX, Win SS, Pang J. Zinc Supplementation Reduces Common Cold Duration among Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials with Micronutrients Supplementation. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2020;103:86. doi:10.4269/ajtmh.19-0718
DeGeorge KC, Ring DJ, Dalrymple SN. Treatment of the Common Cold. Am Fam Physician. 2019;100:281.
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C for the common cold and pneumonia. Pol Arch Intern Med. 2025;135. doi:10.20452/pamw.16926
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C reduces the severity of common colds: a meta-analysis. BMC Public Health. 2023;23:2468. doi:10.1186/s12889-023-17229-8
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Bias against Vitamin C in Mainstream Medicine: Examples from Trials of Vitamin C for Infections. Life (Basel). 2022;12. doi:10.3390/life12010062
Ran L, Zhao W, Wang H, Zhao Y, Bu H. Vitamin C as a Supplementary Therapy in Relieving Symptoms of the Common Cold: A Meta-Analysis of 10 Randomized Controlled Trials. Biomed Res Int. 2020;2020:8573742. doi:10.1155/2020/8573742
Schloss J, Lauche R, Harnett J, Hannan N, Brown D, et al. Efficacy and safety of vitamin C in the management of acute respiratory infection and disease: A rapid review. Adv Integr Med. 2020;7:187. doi:10.1016/j.aimed.2020.07.008
Kim TK, Lim HR, Byun JS. Vitamin C supplementation reduces the odds of developing a common cold in Republic of Korea Army recruits: randomised controlled trial. BMJ Mil Health. 2022;168:117. doi:10.1136/bmjmilitary-2019-001384