We conducted a pilot trial to explore the effectiveness of zinc acetate in treating chronic refractory cough, a condition that causes significant discomfort for many people. In this study, we compared zinc acetate against a placebo over a period of six weeks, with the aim of measuring improvements in quality of life and cough symptoms using several established questionnaires.
Our group included 34 participants who were primarily white females suffering from moderate to severe cough. Throughout the trial, we noted that those taking zinc acetate did experience a rise in serum zinc levels, which indicates that the treatment was effective in that regard. However, when assessing the overall impact on cough symptoms and quality of life, both the zinc and placebo groups showed improvements, but those improvements were minimal.
Importantly, the treatment effects observed did not reach the clinically meaningful thresholds that would suggest zinc acetate significantly benefits cough management. Therefore, we concluded that there is no substantial advantage to using zinc therapy over placebo for people dealing with chronic cough, and suggest that larger trials are unnecessary at this time.
Read More
9
Zinc therapy shows promise for cough
A Potential Novel Treatment for Chronic Cough in Long COVID Patients: Clearance of Epipharyngeal Residual SARS-CoV-2 Spike RNA by Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy.
We explored the effectiveness of Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy (EAT) in addressing chronic cough, particularly in the context of Long COVID. This treatment, prevalent in Japan, uses zinc chloride to reduce inflammation in the epipharyngeal mucosa. We followed a 21-year-old man whose chronic cough persisted for four months after a mild COVID-19 infection. Upon diagnosis, we identified chronic epipharyngitis as the culprit behind his ongoing cough.
The EAT involved weekly treatments for three months. We observed that this therapy not only cleared residual SARS-CoV-2 spike RNA from the epipharyngeal mucosa but also led to a decrease in inflammation and proinflammatory cytokines. While the application of zinc chloride was a significant part of the treatment, it was combined with other elements of EAT, making it challenging to isolate zinc's specific impact on cough relief.
Overall, we found that EAT could be a promising avenue for individuals suffering from chronic cough related to Long COVID, highlighting an innovative way to utilize zinc in managing this persistent symptom.
Read More
8
Zinc in mixed COVID treatment
Efficacy and Safety of Aspirin, Promethazine, and Micronutrients for Rapid Clinical Recovery in Mild to Moderate COVID-19 Patients: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.
We conducted a rigorous randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of an innovative treatment involving a combination of two tablets: one with Aspirin and Promethazine, and another packed with essential micronutrients like vitamin D3, C, B3, zinc, and selenium. Our aim was to determine how this combination affects the symptoms of mild to moderate COVID-19, particularly cough.
Our study included 260 patients and followed a strict methodology, comparing this new treatment to the standard clinical management recommended by the Indian Council of Medical Research. Over a treatment period of 10 days, we observed notable improvements in symptoms, including cough, myalgia, headache, and anosmia, among those who received the APMV2020 treatment alongside standard care.
While zinc was included in the treatment, this study does not isolate its effect on cough specifically since it was part of a comprehensive combination. However, our findings indicated that APMV2020 treatment led to a significant reduction in cough symptoms and inflammatory markers. This positions APMV2020 as a promising candidate for inclusion in COVID-19 management protocols, not only for rapid recovery but also for its potential long-term benefits in reducing complications associated with the virus.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
10
Cough relief
11 people found this helpful
Hello everyone considering this product! Buy it; you will not regret it, especially for kids. As soon as my child started to have a runny nose, I gave him zinc in the morning, and everything cleared up. I began coughing myself, started using zinc, and my cough vanished. This is an incredible product!
Read More
9
Cough control
This is an excellent dietary supplement for boosting and strengthening immunity, just like other Now Foods products. We provide it to our children with other vitamins. Colds have greatly diminished. When one of them begins to cough, we administer a double dose, and they’re fine the next day.
Read More
9
Prevention focused
I find that the 30 mg daily dosage of zinc works better for me than the 50 mg tablet. Since starting this regimen, I have been free from coughs and infections. I intend to continue its use long-term alongside vitamin D3.
A Potential Novel Treatment for Chronic Cough in Long COVID Patients: Clearance of Epipharyngeal Residual SARS-CoV-2 Spike RNA by Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy.
We explored the effectiveness of Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy (EAT) in addressing chronic cough, particularly in the context of Long COVID. This treatment, prevalent in Japan, uses zinc chloride to reduce inflammation in the epipharyngeal mucosa. We followed a 21-year-old man whose chronic cough persisted for four months after a mild COVID-19 infection. Upon diagnosis, we identified chronic epipharyngitis as the culprit behind his ongoing cough.
The EAT involved weekly treatments for three months. We observed that this therapy not only cleared residual SARS-CoV-2 spike RNA from the epipharyngeal mucosa but also led to a decrease in inflammation and proinflammatory cytokines. While the application of zinc chloride was a significant part of the treatment, it was combined with other elements of EAT, making it challenging to isolate zinc's specific impact on cough relief.
Overall, we found that EAT could be a promising avenue for individuals suffering from chronic cough related to Long COVID, highlighting an innovative way to utilize zinc in managing this persistent symptom.
Read More
8
Zinc in mixed COVID treatment
Efficacy and Safety of Aspirin, Promethazine, and Micronutrients for Rapid Clinical Recovery in Mild to Moderate COVID-19 Patients: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.
We conducted a rigorous randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of an innovative treatment involving a combination of two tablets: one with Aspirin and Promethazine, and another packed with essential micronutrients like vitamin D3, C, B3, zinc, and selenium. Our aim was to determine how this combination affects the symptoms of mild to moderate COVID-19, particularly cough.
Our study included 260 patients and followed a strict methodology, comparing this new treatment to the standard clinical management recommended by the Indian Council of Medical Research. Over a treatment period of 10 days, we observed notable improvements in symptoms, including cough, myalgia, headache, and anosmia, among those who received the APMV2020 treatment alongside standard care.
While zinc was included in the treatment, this study does not isolate its effect on cough specifically since it was part of a comprehensive combination. However, our findings indicated that APMV2020 treatment led to a significant reduction in cough symptoms and inflammatory markers. This positions APMV2020 as a promising candidate for inclusion in COVID-19 management protocols, not only for rapid recovery but also for its potential long-term benefits in reducing complications associated with the virus.
Read More
2
Zinc acetate ineffective for cough
Efficacy and tolerability of zinc acetate for treatment of chronic refractory cough: pilot randomised futility trial.
We conducted a pilot trial to explore the effectiveness of zinc acetate in treating chronic refractory cough, a condition that causes significant discomfort for many people. In this study, we compared zinc acetate against a placebo over a period of six weeks, with the aim of measuring improvements in quality of life and cough symptoms using several established questionnaires.
Our group included 34 participants who were primarily white females suffering from moderate to severe cough. Throughout the trial, we noted that those taking zinc acetate did experience a rise in serum zinc levels, which indicates that the treatment was effective in that regard. However, when assessing the overall impact on cough symptoms and quality of life, both the zinc and placebo groups showed improvements, but those improvements were minimal.
Importantly, the treatment effects observed did not reach the clinically meaningful thresholds that would suggest zinc acetate significantly benefits cough management. Therefore, we concluded that there is no substantial advantage to using zinc therapy over placebo for people dealing with chronic cough, and suggest that larger trials are unnecessary at this time.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 9 Reviews
8.6
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
10
Cough relief
11 people found this helpful
Hello everyone considering this product! Buy it; you will not regret it, especially for kids. As soon as my child started to have a runny nose, I gave him zinc in the morning, and everything cleared up. I began coughing myself, started using zinc, and my cough vanished. This is an incredible product!
Read More
9
Cough control
This is an excellent dietary supplement for boosting and strengthening immunity, just like other Now Foods products. We provide it to our children with other vitamins. Colds have greatly diminished. When one of them begins to cough, we administer a double dose, and they’re fine the next day.
Read More
9
Prevention focused
I find that the 30 mg daily dosage of zinc works better for me than the 50 mg tablet. Since starting this regimen, I have been free from coughs and infections. I intend to continue its use long-term alongside vitamin D3.
Read More
9
Cough relief
Perfectly! It eliminates the lingering cough and restores my sense of smell. I've already purchased three cans for my husband! This product is excellent and does not induce the nausea often associated with zinc supplements. I took a regular Zinc from the same brand for myself, but I’ve been unable to finish it due to the nausea, even when taken after a meal. My husband, however, feels fine. Zinc is incredibly beneficial! One of its notable advantages is its ability to alleviate a cough. This product is fantastic for immunity, especially when combined with vitamins C and D—it works brilliantly!
Read More
9
Effective remedy
We all know that zinc aids in body care! When my child started getting a runny nose, I immediately gave him zinc in the morning, and everything cleared up. Soon after, I started coughing myself, so I began taking zinc, and my cough vanished as if by magic. This truly is a superb product...
Coughing is a reflex action that helps clear the airways of mucus, irritants, or foreign particles. It is a natural mechanism the body uses to protect itself and can be triggered by various factors, including infections, allergies, or environmental irritants. There are two main types of coughs: acute coughs, which typically last less than three weeks and often result from a cold or respiratory infection, and chronic coughs, which persist for more than eight weeks and may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
Coughs can also be classified as dry or productive. A dry cough does not produce mucus, while a productive cough does. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause; over-the-counter medications, home remedies, or medical intervention may be recommended based on the severity and duration of the cough. If a cough is persistent, accompanied by other symptoms like fever, shortness of breath, or chest pain, it’s advisable to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
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 garnered attention for its potential role in reducing the duration and severity of colds, which often include symptoms like cough. Some studies suggest that zinc may help by modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation in the throat and respiratory tract. While there are mixed results regarding its efficacy specifically for cough relief, it is commonly found in over-the-counter cold remedies. It’s important to note that more research is needed to confirm these benefits conclusively.
Based on user reviews, results from taking zinc for cough relief can vary, but many users report positive effects within a short period of time. For instance, one user mentioned that their cough "vanished as if by magic" soon after starting the zinc supplement, suggesting immediate effectiveness in some cases Read Review. Another user indicated that their cough was resolved by the next day after increasing their dosage when their child began coughing Read Review.
Some users reported that consistent use over a longer duration, such as two weeks, contributed to their cough disappearing entirely Read Review. Overall, while results may vary from person to person, many users appear to see improvements relatively quickly, often claiming relief within a day or two of starting the supplement.
The evidence surrounding the use of zinc for treating cough is mixed and largely dependent on specific contexts. A pilot study investigated the impact of zinc acetate on chronic refractory cough and found that while participants experienced a rise in serum zinc levels, the improvements in cough symptoms were minimal and did not reach clinically meaningful thresholds. Essentially, zinc therapy did not show substantial advantages over a placebo, suggesting that it may not be a reliable treatment option for chronic cough ([1]).
In another study focused on chronic cough related to Long COVID, zinc chloride was a component of a novel treatment approach. While it was part of a combination therapy aimed at reducing inflammation in the epipharyngeal mucosa, isolating its specific impact on cough relief proved challenging, leaving the overall effectiveness of zinc for this usage somewhat unclear ([2]). Additionally, a combined treatment approach that included zinc and other micronutrients showed significant improvements in cough symptoms among COVID-19 patients, yet it did not allow for a definitive conclusion on zinc's isolated effect on cough ([3]). Overall, while there are some indications of zinc's potential benefits, particularly in specific situations, further research is necessary to firmly establish its efficacy for cough management.
Users have reported a variety of improvements in their symptoms after incorporating zinc supplements into their routines. Many parents found that when their children developed a runny nose or cough, administering zinc brought quick relief. One user noted that their child's runny nose cleared up immediately when they started zinc, while concurrently, the user's own cough "vanished as if by magic" after they began taking the supplement Read Review. Another user echoed similar sentiments, stating that their children's coughs resolved overnight after increasing their dosage Read Review.
In terms of longer-term effects, some users highlighted sustained health benefits from consistent use. A user reported being free from coughs and infections since adopting a 30 mg daily dosage plan Read Review. Additionally, another user mentioned that taking zinc over two weeks resulted in no cough or runny nose, demonstrating that for some, zinc may help prevent symptoms before they escalate Read Review. While individual experiences vary, these reports suggest that zinc may effectively alleviate coughs and support overall immune health, especially during cold seasons.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining zinc supplements with other vitamins to help manage coughs and boost immunity. For instance, one user emphasized the benefits of using zinc alongside vitamins C and D, stating that this combination works brilliantly for immunity and cough relief Read Review. Another user highlighted that they provided zinc to their children with other vitamins, noting a significant decrease in colds and immediate recovery from coughs after administering a double dose Read Review.
Additionally, many users reported that zinc’s effectiveness increases when used consistently over time and in conjunction with healthy practices. One user mentioned taking their zinc along with vitamin D3 for sustained health benefits, claiming they had been free from coughs and infections since adopting this routine Read Review. Overall, these reviews suggest that combining zinc with other supplements may enhance its effectiveness in alleviating coughs and supporting overall immune health.
Based on user reviews, there seems to be a consensus about the effectiveness of zinc in alleviating coughs, though the preferred dosage can vary among individuals. One user shared that a 30 mg daily dosage effectively freed them from coughs and infections, while another reported success using a double dose for their children when they started to cough, leading to quick recovery the next day Read Review. Users have also mentioned that consistently taking zinc during cold seasons helped prevent prolonged coughs, particularly in children Read Review.
Interestingly, some users found a notable contrast between the effects of different zinc dosages; one individual noted that they preferred the 30 mg over a 50 mg option due to better outcomes and fewer side effects Read Review. It appears that while a standard dosage, often around 30 to 50 mg, could be effective against coughs, personal experiences and tolerances may dictate the ideal amount. Regardless of the precise dosage, user testimonials strongly endorse the benefits of zinc for immune support and cough relief.
9
Effective remedy
We all know that zinc aids in body care! When my child started getting a runny nose, I immediately gave him zinc in the morning, and everything cleared up. Soon after, I started coughing myself, so I began taking zinc, and my cough vanished as if by magic. This truly is a superb product...
9
Cough control
This is an excellent dietary supplement for boosting and strengthening immunity, just like other Now Foods products. We provide it to our children with other vitamins. Colds have greatly diminished. When one of them begins to cough, we administer a double dose, and they’re fine the next day.
6
Cough-free experience
My sister advised me to take zinc to avoid being ill frequently. Having recently developed a cough, I took it for 2 weeks, and surprisingly, there has been no cough or runny nose. It’s a great product with small tablets that are easy to swallow, though they should be taken with or after meals to avoid nausea.
9
Prevention focused
I find that the 30 mg daily dosage of zinc works better for me than the 50 mg tablet. Since starting this regimen, I have been free from coughs and infections. I intend to continue its use long-term alongside vitamin D3.
9
Cough relief
Perfectly! It eliminates the lingering cough and restores my sense of smell. I've already purchased three cans for my husband! This product is excellent and does not induce the nausea often associated with zinc supplements. I took a regular Zinc from the same brand for myself, but I’ve been unable to finish it due to the nausea, even when taken after a meal. My husband, however, feels fine. Zinc is incredibly beneficial! One of its notable advantages is its ability to alleviate a cough. This product is fantastic for immunity, especially when combined with vitamins C and D—it works brilliantly!
7.5
Convenient zinc
I liked this product. The small capsules are easy for my 4-year-old to take, even amidst concerns about providing him with necessary zinc during colds and viruses. We have not experienced any side effects, and we regularly use zinc in autumn and spring to prevent slight colds from developing into a prolonged cough.
2
Zinc acetate ineffective for cough
Efficacy and tolerability of zinc acetate for treatment of chronic refractory cough: pilot randomised futility trial.
We conducted a pilot trial to explore the effectiveness of zinc acetate in treating chronic refractory cough, a condition that causes significant discomfort for many people. In this study, we compared zinc acetate against a placebo over a period of six weeks, with the aim of measuring improvements in quality of life and cough symptoms using several established questionnaires.
Our group included 34 participants who were primarily white females suffering from moderate to severe cough. Throughout the trial, we noted that those taking zinc acetate did experience a rise in serum zinc levels, which indicates that the treatment was effective in that regard. However, when assessing the overall impact on cough symptoms and quality of life, both the zinc and placebo groups showed improvements, but those improvements were minimal.
Importantly, the treatment effects observed did not reach the clinically meaningful thresholds that would suggest zinc acetate significantly benefits cough management. Therefore, we concluded that there is no substantial advantage to using zinc therapy over placebo for people dealing with chronic cough, and suggest that larger trials are unnecessary at this time.
9
Zinc therapy shows promise for cough
A Potential Novel Treatment for Chronic Cough in Long COVID Patients: Clearance of Epipharyngeal Residual SARS-CoV-2 Spike RNA by Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy.
We explored the effectiveness of Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy (EAT) in addressing chronic cough, particularly in the context of Long COVID. This treatment, prevalent in Japan, uses zinc chloride to reduce inflammation in the epipharyngeal mucosa. We followed a 21-year-old man whose chronic cough persisted for four months after a mild COVID-19 infection. Upon diagnosis, we identified chronic epipharyngitis as the culprit behind his ongoing cough.
The EAT involved weekly treatments for three months. We observed that this therapy not only cleared residual SARS-CoV-2 spike RNA from the epipharyngeal mucosa but also led to a decrease in inflammation and proinflammatory cytokines. While the application of zinc chloride was a significant part of the treatment, it was combined with other elements of EAT, making it challenging to isolate zinc's specific impact on cough relief.
Overall, we found that EAT could be a promising avenue for individuals suffering from chronic cough related to Long COVID, highlighting an innovative way to utilize zinc in managing this persistent symptom.
8
Zinc in mixed COVID treatment
Efficacy and Safety of Aspirin, Promethazine, and Micronutrients for Rapid Clinical Recovery in Mild to Moderate COVID-19 Patients: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.
We conducted a rigorous randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of an innovative treatment involving a combination of two tablets: one with Aspirin and Promethazine, and another packed with essential micronutrients like vitamin D3, C, B3, zinc, and selenium. Our aim was to determine how this combination affects the symptoms of mild to moderate COVID-19, particularly cough.
Our study included 260 patients and followed a strict methodology, comparing this new treatment to the standard clinical management recommended by the Indian Council of Medical Research. Over a treatment period of 10 days, we observed notable improvements in symptoms, including cough, myalgia, headache, and anosmia, among those who received the APMV2020 treatment alongside standard care.
While zinc was included in the treatment, this study does not isolate its effect on cough specifically since it was part of a comprehensive combination. However, our findings indicated that APMV2020 treatment led to a significant reduction in cough symptoms and inflammatory markers. This positions APMV2020 as a promising candidate for inclusion in COVID-19 management protocols, not only for rapid recovery but also for its potential long-term benefits in reducing complications associated with the virus.
References
Balasubramanian A, Holbrook JT, Canning BJ, Que LG, Castro M, et al. Efficacy and tolerability of zinc acetate for treatment of chronic refractory cough: pilot randomised futility trial. ERJ Open Res. 2023;9. 10.1183/23120541.00678-2022
Nishi K, Yoshimoto S, Tanaka T, Kimura S, Shinchi Y, et al. A Potential Novel Treatment for Chronic Cough in Long COVID Patients: Clearance of Epipharyngeal Residual SARS-CoV-2 Spike RNA by Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy. Cureus. 2023;15:e33421. 10.7759/cureus.33421
Kumar GS, Vadgaonkar A, Purunaik S, Shelatkar R, Vaidya VG, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Aspirin, Promethazine, and Micronutrients for Rapid Clinical Recovery in Mild to Moderate COVID-19 Patients: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. Cureus. 2022;14:e25467. 10.7759/cureus.25467