Research Authors

Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 9 Researches
8.2
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 15 Reviews
7.5
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Tablet
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Zinc (as zinc methionine sulfate complex [OptiZinc®])
30 mg
273%
Copper (as copper citrate)
300 mcg
33%

Top Medical Research Studies

9
Zinc cream alleviates cold sores
We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to explore the effectiveness of a zinc oxide/glycine cream in treating cold sores caused by facial and circumoral herpes. By dividing 46 participants into two groups, one receiving the zinc treatment and the other a placebo, we aimed to measure how this formulation affected the duration and severity of cold sore symptoms.

Our results were quite promising! Participants who began using the zinc oxide/glycine cream within the first 24 hours of noticing symptoms experienced cold sore lesions that lasted only an average of 5 days, compared to 6.5 days for those on the placebo. Additionally, we noticed a significant reduction in the overall severity of their symptoms, including blistering, soreness, itching, and tingling.

As for side effects, subjects treated with the zinc cream experienced only minor and reversible issues typical of ionic zinc salt solutions. This indicates that the zinc oxide/glycine cream is not only effective but also safe for treating cold sores, presenting a valuable option for many people seeking relief from this common condition.
Read More
9
Zinc gel aids cold sore healing
We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to assess the impact of zinc sulfate gel on cold sores, specifically herpes labialis recidivans. In our study, patients treated with zinc sulfate gel, known as Virudermin Gel, experienced significantly reduced symptoms and faster healing compared to those who received just the gel without zinc.

The results were promising; the patients using the zinc gel reported less discomfort, and their sores healed more quickly. Importantly, this treatment showed no significant side effects, making it a safe option for managing cold sores. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of zinc sulfate helped prevent any superinfections, adding another layer of benefit to its use.

Overall, our exploration into zinc’s effectiveness provided valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers seeking reliable cold sore treatment options. With simple application and proven results, zinc sulfate gel could become a go-to remedy for those frequently struggling with herpes labialis recidivans.
Read More
8
Zinc treatment helps cold sores
We aimed to understand how zinc might affect the occurrence and duration of cold sores, also known as herpes labialis. In our study, we treated 20 patients, mostly women with an average age of 26.6, who experienced more than six episodes of cold sores each year. They received zinc sulphate at a dose of 22.5 mg twice daily during specific months over a year while we monitored their symptoms for 12 months.

Our results were promising. Patients reported a decrease in the frequency of cold sore episodes, averaging fewer than four instances per year. Moreover, the duration of these episodes was also shortened to around 5.7 days, significantly less than usual for these conditions.

Thus, we can say that systemic zinc sulphate seemed to effectively reduce both the number of cold sore outbreaks and the recovery time. This suggests that zinc might be a beneficial option for individuals who struggle with recurrent cold sores.
Read More

Most Useful Reviews

9
Quick recovery aid
2 people found this helpful
This is an excellent drug for quickly addressing deficiencies or when one is unwell. With a cold, I take it for 5-7 days, and it helps me recover faster. I've recommended it to my family, and they agree on its efficacy.
Read More
10
Preventative effect
I struggled to find zinc that didn't upset my stomach, and this one is perfect. For two years, I haven't had any colds or sick days—it's always there to save me!
Read More
9
Highly effective
This zinc product, with its good dosage and form, is one I often take when I catch a cold. It is remarkably effective.
Read More

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 9 Researches
8.2
  • All Researches
We explored the connection between zinc levels and recurrent herpes labialis (RHL), commonly known as cold sores. In a study involving 80 individuals, we compared the salivary zinc levels of healthy people with those experiencing RHL during both the acute and convalescent phases.

The findings revealed that patients in the acute phase had significantly lower zinc levels (160.8 ng/ml) compared to when they were recovering (205.7 ng/ml). Both those phases showed lower zinc levels than the healthy individuals' average. This suggests that zinc levels are not just lower when cold sores are present, but also improve after the lesions heal.

Our results indicate that maintaining adequate zinc levels might be beneficial for people suffering from cold sores. Incorporating zinc supplements could play a role in both treating and preventing these uncomfortable outbreaks. We found that increasing serum zinc might help RHL patients, shedding light on a potential supportive treatment strategy for cold sores.
Read More
9
Zinc may relieve cold sores
We conducted a small pilot study to investigate how a combination of L-lysine, zinc, and herbal ingredients could help treat cold sores caused by the Herpes simplex virus. Our goal was to observe the changes in symptoms such as itching, burning, and soreness among participants over the course of treatment.

Thirty individuals, split evenly between genders, participated in our open-label study. We monitored their symptoms through various methods, including self-reported outcomes, photographs, and daily diaries. By the sixth day of treatment, most participants showed considerable improvement, with some experiencing full resolution of their symptoms.

While we didn't isolate the effect of zinc alone, its inclusion in the treatment mix seems promising. By the end of our study, we found that 87 percent of participants had improved symptomatically, which indicates that the combination treatment may effectively relieve cold sore symptoms. Importantly, no adverse effects were reported during the study, which adds to our understanding of these treatments' safety.
Read More
9
Zinc cream alleviates cold sores
We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to explore the effectiveness of a zinc oxide/glycine cream in treating cold sores caused by facial and circumoral herpes. By dividing 46 participants into two groups, one receiving the zinc treatment and the other a placebo, we aimed to measure how this formulation affected the duration and severity of cold sore symptoms.

Our results were quite promising! Participants who began using the zinc oxide/glycine cream within the first 24 hours of noticing symptoms experienced cold sore lesions that lasted only an average of 5 days, compared to 6.5 days for those on the placebo. Additionally, we noticed a significant reduction in the overall severity of their symptoms, including blistering, soreness, itching, and tingling.

As for side effects, subjects treated with the zinc cream experienced only minor and reversible issues typical of ionic zinc salt solutions. This indicates that the zinc oxide/glycine cream is not only effective but also safe for treating cold sores, presenting a valuable option for many people seeking relief from this common condition.
Read More
9
Zinc gel aids cold sore healing
We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to assess the impact of zinc sulfate gel on cold sores, specifically herpes labialis recidivans. In our study, patients treated with zinc sulfate gel, known as Virudermin Gel, experienced significantly reduced symptoms and faster healing compared to those who received just the gel without zinc.

The results were promising; the patients using the zinc gel reported less discomfort, and their sores healed more quickly. Importantly, this treatment showed no significant side effects, making it a safe option for managing cold sores. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of zinc sulfate helped prevent any superinfections, adding another layer of benefit to its use.

Overall, our exploration into zinc’s effectiveness provided valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers seeking reliable cold sore treatment options. With simple application and proven results, zinc sulfate gel could become a go-to remedy for those frequently struggling with herpes labialis recidivans.
Read More
8
Pomegranate extract reduces inflammation
We examined how the combination of pomegranate rind extract (PRE) and zinc impacts cold sores, particularly focusing on inflammation. By applying these substances to ex vivo porcine skin, we were able to assess their ability to modulate COX-2, a key player in the inflammation process.

Our findings revealed that the topical application of PRE significantly reduced COX-2 levels in the skin after just six hours and maintained this effect for 24 hours. When we combined PRE with zinc, the results matched those of PRE alone, indicating that zinc didn't add extra benefits to inflammation control when used together.

However, we also noted that zinc alone showed no significant anti-inflammatory effect, highlighting that the benefits we observed were primarily due to the pomegranate extract rather than zinc. This suggests that while zinc is commonly thought beneficial for treating cold sores, its impact on inflammation might be limited unless paired with more potent anti-inflammatory agents like PRE.

In conclusion, pomegranates present a promising approach to managing inflammation and pain associated with cold sores, but zinc’s standalone effectiveness requires reconsideration.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 15 Reviews
7.5
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
9
Quick recovery aid
2 people found this helpful
This is an excellent drug for quickly addressing deficiencies or when one is unwell. With a cold, I take it for 5-7 days, and it helps me recover faster. I've recommended it to my family, and they agree on its efficacy.
Read More
10
Preventative effect
I struggled to find zinc that didn't upset my stomach, and this one is perfect. For two years, I haven't had any colds or sick days—it's always there to save me!
Read More
9
Highly effective
This zinc product, with its good dosage and form, is one I often take when I catch a cold. It is remarkably effective.
Read More
9
Great for colds
Excellent! I appreciate that it contains copper too. It works effectively for colds and helps replenish deficiencies.
Read More
9
Balanced formulation
Great dosage with added copper! I've been taking this product for over two years. The balance of copper is just right. Typically, I take 2-3 tablets daily during flu or cold seasons, and it really helps. ^^
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

9
Quick recovery aid
2 people found this helpful
This is an excellent drug for quickly addressing deficiencies or when one is unwell. With a cold, I take it for 5-7 days, and it helps me recover faster. I've recommended it to my family, and they agree on its efficacy.
7.5
Reduces colds
For cold prevention, zinc is reputed to be beneficial, and I've noticed that since I began taking it, I've caught colds less frequently. The product is small, tasteless, and odourless, making it easy to consume. It seems to be high-quality zinc.
7.5
Accelerates recovery
I always rely on OptiZinc during bouts of colds and viral infections. It significantly aids in speeding up recovery. However, it's advisable not to use it for more than two weeks consecutively.
9
Strengthens immunity
1 people found this helpful
If only you knew the power of OptiZinc! I take one tablet daily and have noticed significant changes: my immunity has improved remarkably. My child attends kindergarten and often brings home various cold viruses. However, since everyone in the family began taking this supplement, our immune systems have been bolstered, and we have not fallen ill during the epidemic. I wholeheartedly give this product five stars! 💪🔥
7.5
Reduces inactivity
1 people found this helpful
Optizinc, the most assimilated zinc formula, includes copper, boosting my immunity. When I catch a flu or a cold, I take one pill daily, significantly reducing my downtime.
0
No effect noted
13 people found this helpful
Copper can be taken alongside zinc, which was prescribed to me by an otolaryngologist for a sore in my mouth. I was given zinc for only two weeks, costing around 7,000 yen monthly, yet it had no effect. Despite taking 2 capsules, my mouth remains sore. I believe there is a synergistic effect from the vitamins and magnesium I’m taking. While prescription drugs may be more effective, I'm inclined to find something suitable that is also affordable.
9
Effective in prevention
1 people found this helpful
Zinc is readily available and balanced with copper. I bought it to take in combination with others for prevention during autumn and winter. I had no allergic reactions, just slight nausea from taking it on an empty stomach, so I now take it after meals. Fortunately, I have not had any colds while using these supplements, which indicates they are effective.
We explored the relationship between zinc levels and recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) through a study involving 43 patients with a history of this condition and 42 healthy individuals. By measuring serum zinc levels using a colorimetric method, we aimed to find out whether these levels differ significantly between both groups and how they relate to the severity and duration of cold sore episodes.

Although we found that serum zinc levels did not significantly differ between the patients and healthy subjects, we observed an interesting correlation regarding recovery times. Specifically, lower serum zinc levels appeared to be linked to longer recovery periods from cold sores. This suggests that zinc might play a role in speeding up recovery, though it was not a significant factor influencing relapse frequency or patient demographics such as age and sex.

Overall, while the study didn’t establish a direct benefit of zinc supplementation, the findings indicate that zinc deficiency might contribute to longer-lasting cold sores. Therefore, we suggest that evaluating zinc levels in patients experiencing recurrent cold sores could be beneficial and that zinc supplementation may be worth considering in treatment protocols.
9
Zinc gel aids cold sore healing
We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to assess the impact of zinc sulfate gel on cold sores, specifically herpes labialis recidivans. In our study, patients treated with zinc sulfate gel, known as Virudermin Gel, experienced significantly reduced symptoms and faster healing compared to those who received just the gel without zinc.

The results were promising; the patients using the zinc gel reported less discomfort, and their sores healed more quickly. Importantly, this treatment showed no significant side effects, making it a safe option for managing cold sores. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of zinc sulfate helped prevent any superinfections, adding another layer of benefit to its use.

Overall, our exploration into zinc’s effectiveness provided valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers seeking reliable cold sore treatment options. With simple application and proven results, zinc sulfate gel could become a go-to remedy for those frequently struggling with herpes labialis recidivans.
8
Pomegranate extract reduces inflammation
We examined how the combination of pomegranate rind extract (PRE) and zinc impacts cold sores, particularly focusing on inflammation. By applying these substances to ex vivo porcine skin, we were able to assess their ability to modulate COX-2, a key player in the inflammation process.

Our findings revealed that the topical application of PRE significantly reduced COX-2 levels in the skin after just six hours and maintained this effect for 24 hours. When we combined PRE with zinc, the results matched those of PRE alone, indicating that zinc didn't add extra benefits to inflammation control when used together.

However, we also noted that zinc alone showed no significant anti-inflammatory effect, highlighting that the benefits we observed were primarily due to the pomegranate extract rather than zinc. This suggests that while zinc is commonly thought beneficial for treating cold sores, its impact on inflammation might be limited unless paired with more potent anti-inflammatory agents like PRE.

In conclusion, pomegranates present a promising approach to managing inflammation and pain associated with cold sores, but zinc’s standalone effectiveness requires reconsideration.
9
Zinc may relieve cold sores
We conducted a small pilot study to investigate how a combination of L-lysine, zinc, and herbal ingredients could help treat cold sores caused by the Herpes simplex virus. Our goal was to observe the changes in symptoms such as itching, burning, and soreness among participants over the course of treatment.

Thirty individuals, split evenly between genders, participated in our open-label study. We monitored their symptoms through various methods, including self-reported outcomes, photographs, and daily diaries. By the sixth day of treatment, most participants showed considerable improvement, with some experiencing full resolution of their symptoms.

While we didn't isolate the effect of zinc alone, its inclusion in the treatment mix seems promising. By the end of our study, we found that 87 percent of participants had improved symptomatically, which indicates that the combination treatment may effectively relieve cold sore symptoms. Importantly, no adverse effects were reported during the study, which adds to our understanding of these treatments' safety.
8
Zinc treatment helps cold sores
We aimed to understand how zinc might affect the occurrence and duration of cold sores, also known as herpes labialis. In our study, we treated 20 patients, mostly women with an average age of 26.6, who experienced more than six episodes of cold sores each year. They received zinc sulphate at a dose of 22.5 mg twice daily during specific months over a year while we monitored their symptoms for 12 months.

Our results were promising. Patients reported a decrease in the frequency of cold sore episodes, averaging fewer than four instances per year. Moreover, the duration of these episodes was also shortened to around 5.7 days, significantly less than usual for these conditions.

Thus, we can say that systemic zinc sulphate seemed to effectively reduce both the number of cold sore outbreaks and the recovery time. This suggests that zinc might be a beneficial option for individuals who struggle with recurrent cold sores.
9
Zinc cream alleviates cold sores
We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to explore the effectiveness of a zinc oxide/glycine cream in treating cold sores caused by facial and circumoral herpes. By dividing 46 participants into two groups, one receiving the zinc treatment and the other a placebo, we aimed to measure how this formulation affected the duration and severity of cold sore symptoms.

Our results were quite promising! Participants who began using the zinc oxide/glycine cream within the first 24 hours of noticing symptoms experienced cold sore lesions that lasted only an average of 5 days, compared to 6.5 days for those on the placebo. Additionally, we noticed a significant reduction in the overall severity of their symptoms, including blistering, soreness, itching, and tingling.

As for side effects, subjects treated with the zinc cream experienced only minor and reversible issues typical of ionic zinc salt solutions. This indicates that the zinc oxide/glycine cream is not only effective but also safe for treating cold sores, presenting a valuable option for many people seeking relief from this common condition.
8
Zinc effective for cold sores
We explored the effectiveness of low concentrations of zinc sulphate solution in managing recurrent cold sores. The study documented that applying zinc sulphate directly to the skin or oral mucous membrane showed promising results in preventing outbreaks of herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores.

Specifically, we noted that a solution concentration of 0.025-0.05% for the skin and 0.01-0.025% for the oral area was used for treatment. Not only did this approach seem beneficial for active infections, but it also aided in stopping the recurrence of post-herpetic erythema multiforme—a condition related to past herpes outbreaks.

Overall, these findings are exciting for anyone struggling with the recurring pain and embarrassment of cold sores, as they suggest a relatively simple topical treatment could help reduce flare-ups. We believe this research paves the way for further discussions about using zinc sulphate as a viable option for managing such conditions effectively.

References

  1. Ranjbar Z, Zahed M, Ranjbar MA, Shirmardan Z. Comparative study of serum zinc concentration in recurrent herpes labialis patients and healthy individuals. BMC Oral Health. 2020;20:296. 10.1186/s12903-020-01277-2
  2. Houston DM, Bugert J, Denyer SP, Heard CM. Anti-inflammatory activity of Punica granatum L. (Pomegranate) rind extracts applied topically to ex vivo skin. Eur J Pharm Biopharm. 2017;112:30. 10.1016/j.ejpb.2016.11.014
  3. Khozeimeh F, Jafari N, Attar AM, Jafari S, Ataie M. Comparative analysis of salivary zinc level in recurrent herpes labialis. Dent Res J (Isfahan). 2012;9:19. 10.4103/1735-3327.92922
  4. Opstelten W, Neven AK, Eekhof J. Treatment and prevention of herpes labialis. Can Fam Physician. 2008;54:1683.
  5. Femiano F, Gombos F, Scully C. Recurrent herpes labialis: a pilot study of the efficacy of zinc therapy. J Oral Pathol Med. 2005;34:423.
  6. Singh BB, Udani J, Vinjamury SP, Der-Martirosian C, Gandhi S, et al. Safety and effectiveness of an L-lysine, zinc, and herbal-based product on the treatment of facial and circumoral herpes. Altern Med Rev. 2005;10:123.
  7. Godfrey HR, Godfrey NJ, Godfrey JC, Riley D. A randomized clinical trial on the treatment of oral herpes with topical zinc oxide/glycine. Altern Ther Health Med. 2001;7:49.
  8. Kneist W, Hempel B, Borelli S. [Clinical double-blind trial of topical zinc sulfate for herpes labialis recidivans]. Arzneimittelforschung. 1995;45:624.
  9. Brody I. Topical treatment of recurrent herpes simplex and post-herpetic erythema multiforme with low concentrations of zinc sulphate solution. Br J Dermatol. 1981;104:191.
image