Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 8 Researches
6.9
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 7 Reviews
7.8
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Tablet
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Zinc (as zinc picolinate)
22 mg
200%
Top Medical Research Studies
5
Zinc's mixed impact on ear infections
We explored whether zinc supplements could help prevent otitis media, which is a common ear infection affecting many, especially young children. Our examination included several randomized, placebo-controlled trials where participants received zinc supplements at least once a week for a minimum of a month.
In total, we identified 12 trials, but only 10 provided sufficient data for analysis. Among healthy children from low-income communities, most studies did not show a clear benefit of zinc on reducing ear infections. However, one trial with over 1600 participants did find a significantly lower incidence of otitis media in those taking zinc, suggesting that it might help. Additionally, a small study focusing on infants with severe malnutrition hinted at potential benefits, yet it is important to note this was based on limited data.
Overall, the evidence isn't definitive—while some results point towards positive effects, particularly in specific groups, many trials did not support the effectiveness of zinc in healthy children. Furthermore, zinc supplements appeared safe, with minimal reports of adverse effects.
In total, we identified 12 trials, but only 10 provided sufficient data for analysis. Among healthy children from low-income communities, most studies did not show a clear benefit of zinc on reducing ear infections. However, one trial with over 1600 participants did find a significantly lower incidence of otitis media in those taking zinc, suggesting that it might help. Additionally, a small study focusing on infants with severe malnutrition hinted at potential benefits, yet it is important to note this was based on limited data.
Overall, the evidence isn't definitive—while some results point towards positive effects, particularly in specific groups, many trials did not support the effectiveness of zinc in healthy children. Furthermore, zinc supplements appeared safe, with minimal reports of adverse effects.
Read More
7
We analyzed the effectiveness of zinc supplements in preventing otitis media, or middle ear infections, through a detailed examination of various studies. The focus was on randomised, placebo-controlled trials where zinc was administered at least once a week for a month or more.
A total of 12 trials were evaluated, involving over 6,800 participants. While most studies, particularly those involving healthy children in low-income areas, showed no significant difference in the occurrence of ear infections between zinc and placebo groups, one trial did indicate a noteworthy reduction in the rate of otitis media among children receiving zinc supplements.
Additionally, a small trial involving infants suffering from severe malnutrition suggested that zinc may help decrease the number of ear infection episodes. However, the evidence remains mixed, especially for healthy children under five in lower income countries. In the end, while zinc supplements did not lead to serious side effects, some participants experienced mild vomiting after taking them.
Overall, while we found some positive indications for specific groups, the mixed results highlight the need for more research before concluding that zinc could be a reliable preventative measure against ear infections.
A total of 12 trials were evaluated, involving over 6,800 participants. While most studies, particularly those involving healthy children in low-income areas, showed no significant difference in the occurrence of ear infections between zinc and placebo groups, one trial did indicate a noteworthy reduction in the rate of otitis media among children receiving zinc supplements.
Additionally, a small trial involving infants suffering from severe malnutrition suggested that zinc may help decrease the number of ear infection episodes. However, the evidence remains mixed, especially for healthy children under five in lower income countries. In the end, while zinc supplements did not lead to serious side effects, some participants experienced mild vomiting after taking them.
Overall, while we found some positive indications for specific groups, the mixed results highlight the need for more research before concluding that zinc could be a reliable preventative measure against ear infections.
Read More
7
Zinc's mixed effects on otitis media
We examined the potential of zinc supplements to prevent ear infections, specifically otitis media (OM), in various populations. Using a collection of trials, including randomized and placebo-controlled studies, we evaluated the effects of zinc supplementation.
The results showed mixed outcomes, particularly among healthy children living in low-income communities. In two notable studies involving over 3,191 participants, there was no significant difference in the occurrence of OM between those who received zinc and those who were given a placebo. However, one trial with 1,621 children indicated that zinc did lower the rate of OM.
Furthermore, we looked into a smaller trial involving infants suffering from severe malnutrition, which suggested that zinc might help reduce the mean number of OM episodes. While zinc supplements didn’t appear to cause serious side effects, a few children did experience vomiting shortly after taking them.
Overall, the evidence regarding zinc's effectiveness in reducing ear infections, especially among young children in lower-income settings, remains mixed, and we must interpret these findings with caution, especially since the most promising results were from a small study.
The results showed mixed outcomes, particularly among healthy children living in low-income communities. In two notable studies involving over 3,191 participants, there was no significant difference in the occurrence of OM between those who received zinc and those who were given a placebo. However, one trial with 1,621 children indicated that zinc did lower the rate of OM.
Furthermore, we looked into a smaller trial involving infants suffering from severe malnutrition, which suggested that zinc might help reduce the mean number of OM episodes. While zinc supplements didn’t appear to cause serious side effects, a few children did experience vomiting shortly after taking them.
Overall, the evidence regarding zinc's effectiveness in reducing ear infections, especially among young children in lower-income settings, remains mixed, and we must interpret these findings with caution, especially since the most promising results were from a small study.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
0
Worsened infection
4 people found this helpful
Very bad, I experienced a worsening of my bacterial infection afterwards, possibly due to magnesium stearate.
Read More
9
Effective immune boost
6 people found this helpful
Zinc strengthens the immune system and improves skin condition. My family takes it during the cold season to enhance our immunity. Solgar's zinc picolinate helps maintain our health. We took it for two months without anyone getting ill during the epidemic, and it clearly works: I've seen an improvement in my daughter's skin conditions and wound healing.
Read More
9
Strengthened immunity
5 people found this helpful
This zinc picolinate is the best formula for our bodies. It strengthens the immune system and protects against various infections. I take one tablet in the evening after meals for a month, and at the first sign of a cold, I take three pills at once, alleviating the illness.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 8 Researches
6.9
- All Researches
9
Nutraceuticals show promise for ear infections
We conducted a study to examine how a specific nutraceutical, which includes zinc, can support the treatment of ear infections in children. In our trial, 120 children were divided into three groups: a control group that only received standard treatment, and two treatment groups that received both the standard care and the nutraceutical.
The treatment involved the combination of Boswellia serrata, Bromelain, and other ingredients, including zinc, over 20 to 30 days. We used various methods, like otoscopy and auditory tests, to assess the children's health at the start of the study and after treatment.
Our results showed that both treatment groups performed better compared to the control group concerning measures like ear exams and hearing tests after treatment. However, while we observed improvements in the treatment groups, the specific impact of zinc alone could not be clearly determined given that it was part of a larger formula.
The findings highlight the potential of using this nutraceutical blend as a supportive therapy against upper respiratory infections in children, particularly with the inclusion of Boswellia and Bromelain for their anti-inflammatory properties. Nonetheless, we found it challenging to isolate zinc's individual benefit in this context.
The treatment involved the combination of Boswellia serrata, Bromelain, and other ingredients, including zinc, over 20 to 30 days. We used various methods, like otoscopy and auditory tests, to assess the children's health at the start of the study and after treatment.
Our results showed that both treatment groups performed better compared to the control group concerning measures like ear exams and hearing tests after treatment. However, while we observed improvements in the treatment groups, the specific impact of zinc alone could not be clearly determined given that it was part of a larger formula.
The findings highlight the potential of using this nutraceutical blend as a supportive therapy against upper respiratory infections in children, particularly with the inclusion of Boswellia and Bromelain for their anti-inflammatory properties. Nonetheless, we found it challenging to isolate zinc's individual benefit in this context.
Read More
8
We explored the effectiveness of a new herbal compound containing Echinacea angustifolia, along with ingredients like zinc, in treating recurrent upper respiratory infections, particularly ear infections (otitis media), in children. Our study involved 37 pediatric patients who regularly experienced pharyngotonsillitis or otitis media. They were given a treatment combining Echinacea, vitamin C, beta-glucan, and zinc for six months.
We observed a significant reduction in the mean number of inflammatory episodes before and after the treatment— from 3 episodes down to just 1. Moreover, 77% of the children reported a noticeable improvement in the frequency of these episodes, showing that the treatment may positively influence their quality of life. The results were further supported by an improvement in a quality-of-life questionnaire, albeit with the acknowledgment that no isolated effect of zinc was highlighted since it were used with other herbal ingredients.
While our findings suggest that the herbal compound may help alleviate symptoms of recurrent ear infections, it's essential to note that the combined effect of zinc with other ingredients makes it challenging to measure its isolated impact. However, overall, we find that the herbal compound is a promising option for enhancing pediatric health without any reported side effects.
We observed a significant reduction in the mean number of inflammatory episodes before and after the treatment— from 3 episodes down to just 1. Moreover, 77% of the children reported a noticeable improvement in the frequency of these episodes, showing that the treatment may positively influence their quality of life. The results were further supported by an improvement in a quality-of-life questionnaire, albeit with the acknowledgment that no isolated effect of zinc was highlighted since it were used with other herbal ingredients.
While our findings suggest that the herbal compound may help alleviate symptoms of recurrent ear infections, it's essential to note that the combined effect of zinc with other ingredients makes it challenging to measure its isolated impact. However, overall, we find that the herbal compound is a promising option for enhancing pediatric health without any reported side effects.
Read More
8
We explored the effectiveness of a propolis and zinc solution in preventing acute otitis media (AOM) among children aged 1 to 5 who have a history of recurrent ear infections. In our study, 122 children were divided into two groups: one received the propolis and zinc suspension along with efforts to remove environmental risks, while the other group received only the environmental changes.
Over a three-month period, we observed that 50.8% of the children given the propolis and zinc suspension developed AOM, compared to 70.5% in the control group. This marked a significant reduction in infections, with the mean number of AOM episodes per child each month decreasing from 0.34 to 0.23.
The results suggest that administering a propolis and zinc solution can considerably lower the risk of new ear infections and the need for related antibiotic treatments, all while ensuring safety and a high rate of parental satisfaction. However, it is worth noting that the study does not imply any benefit of this treatment regarding other respiratory infections beyond AOM.
Over a three-month period, we observed that 50.8% of the children given the propolis and zinc suspension developed AOM, compared to 70.5% in the control group. This marked a significant reduction in infections, with the mean number of AOM episodes per child each month decreasing from 0.34 to 0.23.
The results suggest that administering a propolis and zinc solution can considerably lower the risk of new ear infections and the need for related antibiotic treatments, all while ensuring safety and a high rate of parental satisfaction. However, it is worth noting that the study does not imply any benefit of this treatment regarding other respiratory infections beyond AOM.
Read More
We conducted a randomized controlled trial to assess the effects of oral supplements, including zinc, on children suffering from ear infections, specifically otitis media with effusion (OME). Our study involved 198 children aged between 12 and 96 months, who were divided into four groups, with one group receiving standard treatment.
The group that received the immune-stimulating oral supplements, which featured zinc, was monitored for improvements in ear health through various measures, such as tympanometry and audiometry. While there was an overall positive trend among those who took the supplements, it’s essential to clarify that the isolated effect of zinc itself on ear infections was not fully determined in our findings.
We concluded that the supplements could enhance overall immune response and potentially reduce inflammation in the ear, thus aiding in better middle ear ventilation. However, the direct impact of zinc remains embedded within a combination of other treatments, making it challenging to specify its individual contribution to treating ear infections.
The group that received the immune-stimulating oral supplements, which featured zinc, was monitored for improvements in ear health through various measures, such as tympanometry and audiometry. While there was an overall positive trend among those who took the supplements, it’s essential to clarify that the isolated effect of zinc itself on ear infections was not fully determined in our findings.
We concluded that the supplements could enhance overall immune response and potentially reduce inflammation in the ear, thus aiding in better middle ear ventilation. However, the direct impact of zinc remains embedded within a combination of other treatments, making it challenging to specify its individual contribution to treating ear infections.
Read More
7
We analyzed the effectiveness of zinc supplements in preventing otitis media, or middle ear infections, through a detailed examination of various studies. The focus was on randomised, placebo-controlled trials where zinc was administered at least once a week for a month or more.
A total of 12 trials were evaluated, involving over 6,800 participants. While most studies, particularly those involving healthy children in low-income areas, showed no significant difference in the occurrence of ear infections between zinc and placebo groups, one trial did indicate a noteworthy reduction in the rate of otitis media among children receiving zinc supplements.
Additionally, a small trial involving infants suffering from severe malnutrition suggested that zinc may help decrease the number of ear infection episodes. However, the evidence remains mixed, especially for healthy children under five in lower income countries. In the end, while zinc supplements did not lead to serious side effects, some participants experienced mild vomiting after taking them.
Overall, while we found some positive indications for specific groups, the mixed results highlight the need for more research before concluding that zinc could be a reliable preventative measure against ear infections.
A total of 12 trials were evaluated, involving over 6,800 participants. While most studies, particularly those involving healthy children in low-income areas, showed no significant difference in the occurrence of ear infections between zinc and placebo groups, one trial did indicate a noteworthy reduction in the rate of otitis media among children receiving zinc supplements.
Additionally, a small trial involving infants suffering from severe malnutrition suggested that zinc may help decrease the number of ear infection episodes. However, the evidence remains mixed, especially for healthy children under five in lower income countries. In the end, while zinc supplements did not lead to serious side effects, some participants experienced mild vomiting after taking them.
Overall, while we found some positive indications for specific groups, the mixed results highlight the need for more research before concluding that zinc could be a reliable preventative measure against ear infections.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 7 Reviews
7.8
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
0
Worsened infection
4 people found this helpful
Very bad, I experienced a worsening of my bacterial infection afterwards, possibly due to magnesium stearate.
Read More
9
Effective immune boost
6 people found this helpful
Zinc strengthens the immune system and improves skin condition. My family takes it during the cold season to enhance our immunity. Solgar's zinc picolinate helps maintain our health. We took it for two months without anyone getting ill during the epidemic, and it clearly works: I've seen an improvement in my daughter's skin conditions and wound healing.
Read More
9
Strengthened immunity
5 people found this helpful
This zinc picolinate is the best formula for our bodies. It strengthens the immune system and protects against various infections. I take one tablet in the evening after meals for a month, and at the first sign of a cold, I take three pills at once, alleviating the illness.
Read More
7.5
Supports respiratory health
3 people found this helpful
I use zinc when feeling unwell, as I have COPD. It helps me clear up before the illness reaches my lungs, and I always feel better when combining it with Vitamin C. Picolinate is my preferred form.
Read More
7.5
Fights infection effectively
7 people found this helpful
I still find Solgar to be the best for therapeutic action. Taking 22mg twice daily has worked wonders for fighting infections.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Strengthened immunity
5 people found this helpful
This zinc picolinate is the best formula for our bodies. It strengthens the immune system and protects against various infections. I take one tablet in the evening after meals for a month, and at the first sign of a cold, I take three pills at once, alleviating the illness.
9
Effective immune boost
6 people found this helpful
Zinc strengthens the immune system and improves skin condition. My family takes it during the cold season to enhance our immunity. Solgar's zinc picolinate helps maintain our health. We took it for two months without anyone getting ill during the epidemic, and it clearly works: I've seen an improvement in my daughter's skin conditions and wound healing.
0
Worsened infection
4 people found this helpful
Very bad, I experienced a worsening of my bacterial infection afterwards, possibly due to magnesium stearate.
7.5
Supports respiratory health
3 people found this helpful
I use zinc when feeling unwell, as I have COPD. It helps me clear up before the illness reaches my lungs, and I always feel better when combining it with Vitamin C. Picolinate is my preferred form.
7.5
Overall health improved
4 people found this helpful
Small capsules that are easy to swallow. This amazing brand provides excellent quality and value. I had no idea how many people were deficient in minerals. My nutritionist recommended this zinc, and I noticed improvements in my skin, infections, and overall health. I have tried other brands but was very disappointed. I highly recommend this product and others from Solgar.
7.5
Fights infection effectively
7 people found this helpful
I still find Solgar to be the best for therapeutic action. Taking 22mg twice daily has worked wonders for fighting infections.
7.5
Reduces infection risk
1 people found this helpful
Zinc is crucial for the immune system and intestinal cell function. It helps activate numerous enzymes and is vital in hormone synthesis. Zinc reduces susceptibility to acute lower respiratory tract infections by regulating immune system functions and maintaining airway cell integrity during inflammation. Regular zinc supplementation can positively impact respiratory infections, especially in children.
7
We analyzed the effectiveness of zinc supplements in preventing otitis media, or middle ear infections, through a detailed examination of various studies. The focus was on randomised, placebo-controlled trials where zinc was administered at least once a week for a month or more.
A total of 12 trials were evaluated, involving over 6,800 participants. While most studies, particularly those involving healthy children in low-income areas, showed no significant difference in the occurrence of ear infections between zinc and placebo groups, one trial did indicate a noteworthy reduction in the rate of otitis media among children receiving zinc supplements.
Additionally, a small trial involving infants suffering from severe malnutrition suggested that zinc may help decrease the number of ear infection episodes. However, the evidence remains mixed, especially for healthy children under five in lower income countries. In the end, while zinc supplements did not lead to serious side effects, some participants experienced mild vomiting after taking them.
Overall, while we found some positive indications for specific groups, the mixed results highlight the need for more research before concluding that zinc could be a reliable preventative measure against ear infections.
A total of 12 trials were evaluated, involving over 6,800 participants. While most studies, particularly those involving healthy children in low-income areas, showed no significant difference in the occurrence of ear infections between zinc and placebo groups, one trial did indicate a noteworthy reduction in the rate of otitis media among children receiving zinc supplements.
Additionally, a small trial involving infants suffering from severe malnutrition suggested that zinc may help decrease the number of ear infection episodes. However, the evidence remains mixed, especially for healthy children under five in lower income countries. In the end, while zinc supplements did not lead to serious side effects, some participants experienced mild vomiting after taking them.
Overall, while we found some positive indications for specific groups, the mixed results highlight the need for more research before concluding that zinc could be a reliable preventative measure against ear infections.
8
We explored the effectiveness of a new herbal compound containing Echinacea angustifolia, along with ingredients like zinc, in treating recurrent upper respiratory infections, particularly ear infections (otitis media), in children. Our study involved 37 pediatric patients who regularly experienced pharyngotonsillitis or otitis media. They were given a treatment combining Echinacea, vitamin C, beta-glucan, and zinc for six months.
We observed a significant reduction in the mean number of inflammatory episodes before and after the treatment— from 3 episodes down to just 1. Moreover, 77% of the children reported a noticeable improvement in the frequency of these episodes, showing that the treatment may positively influence their quality of life. The results were further supported by an improvement in a quality-of-life questionnaire, albeit with the acknowledgment that no isolated effect of zinc was highlighted since it were used with other herbal ingredients.
While our findings suggest that the herbal compound may help alleviate symptoms of recurrent ear infections, it's essential to note that the combined effect of zinc with other ingredients makes it challenging to measure its isolated impact. However, overall, we find that the herbal compound is a promising option for enhancing pediatric health without any reported side effects.
We observed a significant reduction in the mean number of inflammatory episodes before and after the treatment— from 3 episodes down to just 1. Moreover, 77% of the children reported a noticeable improvement in the frequency of these episodes, showing that the treatment may positively influence their quality of life. The results were further supported by an improvement in a quality-of-life questionnaire, albeit with the acknowledgment that no isolated effect of zinc was highlighted since it were used with other herbal ingredients.
While our findings suggest that the herbal compound may help alleviate symptoms of recurrent ear infections, it's essential to note that the combined effect of zinc with other ingredients makes it challenging to measure its isolated impact. However, overall, we find that the herbal compound is a promising option for enhancing pediatric health without any reported side effects.
We conducted a randomized controlled trial to assess the effects of oral supplements, including zinc, on children suffering from ear infections, specifically otitis media with effusion (OME). Our study involved 198 children aged between 12 and 96 months, who were divided into four groups, with one group receiving standard treatment.
The group that received the immune-stimulating oral supplements, which featured zinc, was monitored for improvements in ear health through various measures, such as tympanometry and audiometry. While there was an overall positive trend among those who took the supplements, it’s essential to clarify that the isolated effect of zinc itself on ear infections was not fully determined in our findings.
We concluded that the supplements could enhance overall immune response and potentially reduce inflammation in the ear, thus aiding in better middle ear ventilation. However, the direct impact of zinc remains embedded within a combination of other treatments, making it challenging to specify its individual contribution to treating ear infections.
The group that received the immune-stimulating oral supplements, which featured zinc, was monitored for improvements in ear health through various measures, such as tympanometry and audiometry. While there was an overall positive trend among those who took the supplements, it’s essential to clarify that the isolated effect of zinc itself on ear infections was not fully determined in our findings.
We concluded that the supplements could enhance overall immune response and potentially reduce inflammation in the ear, thus aiding in better middle ear ventilation. However, the direct impact of zinc remains embedded within a combination of other treatments, making it challenging to specify its individual contribution to treating ear infections.
5
Zinc's mixed impact on ear infections
We explored whether zinc supplements could help prevent otitis media, which is a common ear infection affecting many, especially young children. Our examination included several randomized, placebo-controlled trials where participants received zinc supplements at least once a week for a minimum of a month.
In total, we identified 12 trials, but only 10 provided sufficient data for analysis. Among healthy children from low-income communities, most studies did not show a clear benefit of zinc on reducing ear infections. However, one trial with over 1600 participants did find a significantly lower incidence of otitis media in those taking zinc, suggesting that it might help. Additionally, a small study focusing on infants with severe malnutrition hinted at potential benefits, yet it is important to note this was based on limited data.
Overall, the evidence isn't definitive—while some results point towards positive effects, particularly in specific groups, many trials did not support the effectiveness of zinc in healthy children. Furthermore, zinc supplements appeared safe, with minimal reports of adverse effects.
In total, we identified 12 trials, but only 10 provided sufficient data for analysis. Among healthy children from low-income communities, most studies did not show a clear benefit of zinc on reducing ear infections. However, one trial with over 1600 participants did find a significantly lower incidence of otitis media in those taking zinc, suggesting that it might help. Additionally, a small study focusing on infants with severe malnutrition hinted at potential benefits, yet it is important to note this was based on limited data.
Overall, the evidence isn't definitive—while some results point towards positive effects, particularly in specific groups, many trials did not support the effectiveness of zinc in healthy children. Furthermore, zinc supplements appeared safe, with minimal reports of adverse effects.
References
- Della Volpe A, De Luca P, De Lucia A, Martines F, Piroli P, et al. Single-Center-Single-Blinded Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy of a Nutraceutical Containing Boswellia Serrata, Bromelain, Zinc, Magnesium, Honey, Tyndallized Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Casei to Fight Upper Respiratory Tract Infection and Otitis Media. Healthcare (Basel). 2022;10. doi:10.3390/healthcare10081526
- Della Volpe A, Ricci G, Ralli M, Gambacorta V, De Lucia A, et al. The effects of oral supplements with Sambucus nigra, Zinc, Tyndallized Lactobacillus acidophilus (HA122), Arabinogalactans, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin C in otitis media with effusion in children: a randomized controlled trial. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2019;23:6360. doi:10.26355/eurrev_201907_18460
- Pavel IZ, Csuk R, Danciu C, Avram S, Baderca F, et al. Assessment of the Antiangiogenic and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of a Maslinic Acid Derivative and its Potentiation using Zinc Chloride. Int J Mol Sci. 2019;20. doi:10.3390/ijms20112828
- Gulani A, Sachdev HS. Zinc supplements for preventing otitis media. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014;2014:CD006639. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD006639.pub4
- Gulani A, Sachdev HS. Zinc supplements for preventing otitis media. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD006639.pub3
- Minetti AM, Forti S, Tassone G, Torretta S, Pignataro L. Efficacy of complex herbal compound of Echinacea angustifolia (Imoviral® Junior) in recurrent upper respiratory tract infections during pediatric age: preliminary results. Minerva Pediatr. 2011;63:177.
- Marchisio P, Esposito S, Bianchini S, Desantis C, Galeone C, et al. Effectiveness of a propolis and zinc solution in preventing acute otitis media in children with a history of recurrent acute otitis media. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol. 2010;23:567.
- Abba K, Gulani A, Sachdev HS. Zinc supplements for preventing otitis media. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD006639.pub2
