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
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
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.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Cold prevention essential
15 people found this helpful
Excellent zinc! A must-have at the onset of a common cold or virus.
Read More
9
Effective prevention
9 people found this helpful
I take this supplement with vitamin C, as recommended by my doctor, to prevent colds during an epidemic and at the first sign of illness. It helps from the first day of taking the capsules. I always keep it in my medicine cabinet and highly recommend it to others!
Read More
7.5
Reduces symptoms
6 people found this helpful
Zinc gluconate at a high dosage of 50 mg is what I take when I sense I might get sick, as it lowers the chance of contracting a viral cold. If symptoms arise, it helps to reduce both the duration and severity of the common cold. However, be cautious not to take it alongside certain antibiotics or minerals. For continuous use, the dosage should be lower to avoid drawbacks.
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
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
7
Zinc's unclear role in colds
Potential Role of Vitamins and Zinc on Acute Respiratory Infections Including Covid-19.
We explored the potential effects of zinc on the common cold based on a collection of research studies that investigated its role in treating acute respiratory infections, including COVID-19.
Importantly, we found that while zinc showed some promise in improving conditions related to pneumonia in children under five, there wasn't enough clear evidence linking zinc directly to a reduction in the incidence or duration of the common cold.
Typically, vitamins C, D, and E were examined alongside zinc, with findings indicating that these vitamins did not lower the common cold's occurrence. However, we noted that vitamin C did help shorten its duration and lessen its severity for some individuals, particularly those under physical or environmental stress.
Ultimately, while zinc has been shown to support health in various contexts, its specific impact on the common cold remains uncertain, suggesting that additional research is needed to draw more definitive conclusions.
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.
Excellent zinc! A must-have at the onset of a common cold or virus.
Read More
9
Effective prevention
9 people found this helpful
I take this supplement with vitamin C, as recommended by my doctor, to prevent colds during an epidemic and at the first sign of illness. It helps from the first day of taking the capsules. I always keep it in my medicine cabinet and highly recommend it to others!
Read More
7.5
Reduces symptoms
6 people found this helpful
Zinc gluconate at a high dosage of 50 mg is what I take when I sense I might get sick, as it lowers the chance of contracting a viral cold. If symptoms arise, it helps to reduce both the duration and severity of the common cold. However, be cautious not to take it alongside certain antibiotics or minerals. For continuous use, the dosage should be lower to avoid drawbacks.
Read More
9
Speeds recovery
3 people found this helpful
I've been ordering zinc for years and can clearly feel its effect, particularly when I have a cold—it always passes quicker and feels easier right away.
Read More
9
Strengthened immunity
2 people found this helpful
I've only been taking this supplement for a short while, but I've noticed an improvement in my immune system. I caught a viral infection, but my symptoms were mild and resolved within two days. I used to suffer from longer colds, so I’m pleased with this outcome.
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, the time it takes to see results from taking zinc supplements for the common cold can vary, but many users report feeling benefits quite quickly. For example, one reviewer noted that they experienced improvements within the first day of taking zinc, which indicates a rapid onset of effectiveness when the supplement is taken at the first sign of illness Read Review. Another user mentioned that their cold symptoms were milder and resolved within two days after beginning zinc supplementation, suggesting that prompt use can lead to quicker recovery Read Review.
Overall, users consistently highlight that starting zinc immediately at the onset of a cold tends to result in faster resolution of symptoms and a shortened duration of the illness. Many have noted that taking zinc helps them recover more quickly and effectively manage the severity of their cold symptoms Read Review. So, while experiences may vary, a significant number of users report noticing beneficial effects in just a matter of days.
Zinc supplementation has been a topic of interest in the research community for its potential effects on the common cold. Several studies suggest that while zinc may not effectively prevent colds, it has the potential to reduce the duration of symptoms once a cold strikes. For instance, a comprehensive review indicated that zinc could possibly shorten the duration of cold symptoms by about 2.25 days when used alone, with some trials reporting even greater reductions for individuals suffering from longer colds [5]. However, it is essential to note that an increase in non-serious side effects such as an unpleasant taste was also reported [1].
Moreover, additional studies have explored zinc's effectiveness in conjunction with other compounds, revealing promising results in reducing viral replication when combined with certain polyphenols. However, because these studies did not isolate the effects of zinc alone, it is challenging to firmly establish its effectiveness as a standalone treatment [2]. Overall, while zinc may offer some benefits in alleviating cold symptoms, the evidence remains mixed and suggests that further research is needed to provide clearer conclusions on its efficacy in treating the common cold [4].
Based on user reviews, many individuals report significant improvements in their symptoms associated with colds and overall health after incorporating zinc supplements into their routines. For instance, several users noted quicker recovery times when they began taking zinc at the first sign of a cold, with one reviewer stating their cold symptoms improved immediately and passed more quickly than usual Read Review, while another mentioned that their cold symptoms were milder and resolved within just two days of starting supplementation Read Review.
In addition to reducing the severity and duration of colds, some users have experienced other health benefits, including improved skin clarity and increased immune function. One reviewer remarked that taking zinc alongside vitamin C helped boost their immune system effectively, contributing to fewer illnesses despite being exposed to sick individuals Read Review. Overall, while individual results can vary, a significant number of users consistently highlight the beneficial effects of zinc, tying its use to enhanced well-being during cold seasons and beyond.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report positive experiences when combining zinc supplements with vitamin C and other immune-supporting supplements during the cold season. One user mentioned taking zinc along with vitamin C as advised by their doctor, which they found effective for preventing colds during epidemics and reported feeling better within the first day of taking it Read Review. Another review noted the beneficial effects of taking zinc with echinacea, emphasizing that this combination provided strong support for their immune system during cold months Read Review.
Additionally, users caution to avoid certain combinations, particularly with specific antibiotics or minerals, to prevent potential interactions Read Review. Overall, many users highlight that integrating zinc with other supplements can enhance its effects on immune function and may lead to quicker recovery from colds, ultimately promoting better overall health when facing seasonal illnesses.
When it comes to treating the common cold, zinc has been shown to provide some benefit, particularly in reducing the duration of symptoms. According to a review of 20 randomized controlled trials, zinc supplementation can cut the duration of cold symptoms by approximately 2.25 days when used alone [5]. Additionally, studies involving zinc lozenges have shown even more promising results, with one notable trial revealing an average reduction of about 4.0 days in cold duration. However, the effectiveness of these lozenges can vary significantly depending on how long the cold has lasted, with longer colds seeing reductions of up to 8 days while shorter ones see minimal effects [3].
While zinc may not prevent the onset of a cold, it does play a role in symptom management and can help shorten the duration once you're affected. Importantly, the various forms of zinc, such as gluconate and acetate, might exhibit different efficacy levels [3]. If you're considering zinc for cold relief, typical doses can vary, but many studies suggest that zinc lozenges containing around 9-24 mg of zinc can be effective. As always, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. Keep in mind that while zinc can be beneficial, it should not be seen as a standalone solution for common cold treatment [6].
9
Effective prevention
9 people found this helpful
I take this supplement with vitamin C, as recommended by my doctor, to prevent colds during an epidemic and at the first sign of illness. It helps from the first day of taking the capsules. I always keep it in my medicine cabinet and highly recommend it to others!
9
Strengthened immunity
2 people found this helpful
I've only been taking this supplement for a short while, but I've noticed an improvement in my immune system. I caught a viral infection, but my symptoms were mild and resolved within two days. I used to suffer from longer colds, so I’m pleased with this outcome.
9
Effective cold remedy
Excellent dosage of zinc. I start taking it immediately on the first day of a cold, and it always helps.
9
Speeds recovery
3 people found this helpful
I've been ordering zinc for years and can clearly feel its effect, particularly when I have a cold—it always passes quicker and feels easier right away.
9
Clearer skin
1 people found this helpful
I've been taking these zinc capsules for a few weeks and I'm noticing positive effects. They've improved my immune system; I haven’t caught a cold despite exposure to sick individuals, and my skin looks clearer. I'm satisfied with this purchase.
9
Supports immunity well
During the cold season, I take zinc with vitamin C and echinacea in small courses, and it does a great job in supporting my immunity.
7.5
Reduces symptoms
6 people found this helpful
Zinc gluconate at a high dosage of 50 mg is what I take when I sense I might get sick, as it lowers the chance of contracting a viral cold. If symptoms arise, it helps to reduce both the duration and severity of the common cold. However, be cautious not to take it alongside certain antibiotics or minerals. For continuous use, the dosage should be lower to avoid drawbacks.
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.
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.
9
Zinc's potential in virus treatment
Inhibition of Respiratory RNA Viruses by a Composition of Ionophoric Polyphenols with Metal Ions.
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.
7
Zinc's unclear role in colds
Potential Role of Vitamins and Zinc on Acute Respiratory Infections Including Covid-19.
We explored the potential effects of zinc on the common cold based on a collection of research studies that investigated its role in treating acute respiratory infections, including COVID-19.
Importantly, we found that while zinc showed some promise in improving conditions related to pneumonia in children under five, there wasn't enough clear evidence linking zinc directly to a reduction in the incidence or duration of the common cold.
Typically, vitamins C, D, and E were examined alongside zinc, with findings indicating that these vitamins did not lower the common cold's occurrence. However, we noted that vitamin C did help shorten its duration and lessen its severity for some individuals, particularly those under physical or environmental stress.
Ultimately, while zinc has been shown to support health in various contexts, its specific impact on the common cold remains uncertain, suggesting that additional research is needed to draw more definitive conclusions.
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.
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.