We investigated the impact of dispersible zinc tablets on postoperative sore throat (POST) experienced by patients after endotracheal intubation. In our study, 88 patients were divided into two groups. One group received a 40 mg zinc tablet, while the other received a placebo 30 minutes before their surgery.
Our findings revealed that the zinc group reported significantly fewer instances of POST at the 4-hour mark compared to the placebo group. Specifically, only 6.8% of patients in the zinc group experienced POST, while a higher 31.8% in the placebo group did. Furthermore, none of the patients taking zinc reported severe sore throat, a stark contrast to three patients in the placebo group who did.
Additionally, we noted lower severity ratings for sore throat in the zinc group at various time intervals post-surgery. The results emphasize that taking zinc tablets before surgery can effectively mitigate the incidence and discomfort of sore throat following intubation, presenting a simple solution for a common postoperative issue.
Read More
9
Zinc reduces postoperative sore throat
The Effect of Zinc Lozenge on Postoperative Sore Throat: A Prospective Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Study.
We explored the potential benefits of zinc lozenges for easing postoperative sore throat (POST), a common discomfort following endotracheal intubation. By conducting a randomized, double-blinded trial with 79 patients undergoing low- to moderate-risk surgeries, we divided participants into two groups: one received zinc lozenges, while the other was given a placebo.
Our findings revealed promising results. At the crucial four-hour mark post-surgery, only 7% of patients who took zinc experienced POST, compared to 29% in the placebo group. Interestingly, the difference was even more pronounced right after surgery, where the zinc group reported a 0% incidence of POST versus 24% for the control group.
Moreover, the severity of sore throat symptoms was notably less intense among those in the zinc group. Those with mild and moderate sore throat pains reported significantly lower severity scores. These results suggest that a single dose of 40 mg of zinc lozenges taken just 30 minutes before surgery can greatly aid in reducing both the occurrence and discomfort of POST in the early hours after surgery.
Read More
9.5
Zinc reduces postoperative sore throat
A randomised, double-blind, comparative study of preoperative magnesium sulphate versus zinc sulphate gargle for prevention of postoperative sore throat following endotracheal intubation.
We conducted a study to understand how well zinc can help prevent postoperative sore throat (POST) after endotracheal intubation. We compared the effects of gargling with zinc sulphate versus magnesium sulphate in a controlled trial involving 132 patients. Those in the zinc group received a solution with 40 mg of elemental zinc, while the magnesium group used 20 mg/kg of magnesium sulphate, with a control group receiving only dextrose.
Our findings showed that the group using zinc sulphate experienced notably lower rates of sore throat compared to those using magnesium sulphate. Specifically, the incidence of mild POST was significantly lower in the zinc group, especially during the first four hours after surgery. Overall, zinc gargle proved to be more effective in reducing sore throat compared to magnesium sulphate, demonstrating its potential benefits in postoperative care.
These results highlight the importance of zinc as a simple yet effective intervention to reduce discomfort for patients following surgery. By using zinc gargle preoperatively, we can potentially improve patient outcomes related to postoperative sore throat.
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Most Useful Reviews
9
Immunity boost
1 people found this helpful
I ordered this on the advice of my doctors after having Covid to boost my immunity. I am pleased with the results; the symptoms bothering me, such as sore throat and fatigue, have gone.
Read More
9
Immunity improvement
This is one of the best zinc options, with the picolinate form ensuring high absorption. It effectively combats colds and sore throats while greatly improving my immunity and overall health.
Read More
9
Sore throat solution
My husband frequently experiences sore throats. After he started taking zinc regularly, we've completely forgotten about them.
A randomised, double-blind, comparative study of preoperative magnesium sulphate versus zinc sulphate gargle for prevention of postoperative sore throat following endotracheal intubation.
We conducted a study to understand how well zinc can help prevent postoperative sore throat (POST) after endotracheal intubation. We compared the effects of gargling with zinc sulphate versus magnesium sulphate in a controlled trial involving 132 patients. Those in the zinc group received a solution with 40 mg of elemental zinc, while the magnesium group used 20 mg/kg of magnesium sulphate, with a control group receiving only dextrose.
Our findings showed that the group using zinc sulphate experienced notably lower rates of sore throat compared to those using magnesium sulphate. Specifically, the incidence of mild POST was significantly lower in the zinc group, especially during the first four hours after surgery. Overall, zinc gargle proved to be more effective in reducing sore throat compared to magnesium sulphate, demonstrating its potential benefits in postoperative care.
These results highlight the importance of zinc as a simple yet effective intervention to reduce discomfort for patients following surgery. By using zinc gargle preoperatively, we can potentially improve patient outcomes related to postoperative sore throat.
Read More
9.5
Zinc reduces postoperative sore throat
Preoperative oral zinc tablet decreases incidence of postoperative sore throat.
We investigated the impact of dispersible zinc tablets on postoperative sore throat (POST) experienced by patients after endotracheal intubation. In our study, 88 patients were divided into two groups. One group received a 40 mg zinc tablet, while the other received a placebo 30 minutes before their surgery.
Our findings revealed that the zinc group reported significantly fewer instances of POST at the 4-hour mark compared to the placebo group. Specifically, only 6.8% of patients in the zinc group experienced POST, while a higher 31.8% in the placebo group did. Furthermore, none of the patients taking zinc reported severe sore throat, a stark contrast to three patients in the placebo group who did.
Additionally, we noted lower severity ratings for sore throat in the zinc group at various time intervals post-surgery. The results emphasize that taking zinc tablets before surgery can effectively mitigate the incidence and discomfort of sore throat following intubation, presenting a simple solution for a common postoperative issue.
Read More
9
Zinc reduces postoperative sore throat
The Effect of Zinc Lozenge on Postoperative Sore Throat: A Prospective Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Study.
We explored the potential benefits of zinc lozenges for easing postoperative sore throat (POST), a common discomfort following endotracheal intubation. By conducting a randomized, double-blinded trial with 79 patients undergoing low- to moderate-risk surgeries, we divided participants into two groups: one received zinc lozenges, while the other was given a placebo.
Our findings revealed promising results. At the crucial four-hour mark post-surgery, only 7% of patients who took zinc experienced POST, compared to 29% in the placebo group. Interestingly, the difference was even more pronounced right after surgery, where the zinc group reported a 0% incidence of POST versus 24% for the control group.
Moreover, the severity of sore throat symptoms was notably less intense among those in the zinc group. Those with mild and moderate sore throat pains reported significantly lower severity scores. These results suggest that a single dose of 40 mg of zinc lozenges taken just 30 minutes before surgery can greatly aid in reducing both the occurrence and discomfort of POST in the early hours after surgery.
Read More
8
Zinc's role in sore throat treatment
The Effectiveness of a Dietary Supplement with Honey, Propolis, Extract, and Zinc in Children Affected by Acute Tonsillopharyngitis: An Open, Randomized, and Controlled Trial.
We evaluated a promising dietary supplement that combines honey, propolis, and zinc to see how effective it could be for children suffering from acute tonsillopharyngitis, a type of sore throat. In this open-label, randomized, and controlled study, we compared the supplement along with standard care against standard care alone over six days.
The results revealed that incorporating the supplement with standard care led to notable improvements in certain symptoms associated with sore throat, such as throat pain and swallowing difficulties by day four and six. Although zinc was part of the blend, it was challenging to pinpoint its independent effect, given that it was studied alongside honey and propolis.
Interestingly, only one child in the standard care group needed additional medications like ibuprofen, highlighting that the supplement may reduce the need for further treatment. Importantly, we did not report any adverse events, making this combination a potential safe addition to treatment.
Overall, while the study presents encouraging results regarding the adjunctive use of the supplement in treating sore throat, it remains unclear how much zinc alone contributes to its effectiveness.
Read More
8
Zinc's variable effectiveness for sore throat
Zinc deficits, mucositis, and mucosal macrophage perturbation: is there a relationship?
We examined recent findings regarding zinc's impact on sore throat, particularly in post-operative settings. Some studies have reported that specific zinc formulations, like polaprezinc, can effectively reduce symptoms associated with sore throat after procedures like endotracheal intubation.
Importantly, zinc sulfate showed mixed results, with one review suggesting it did not significantly decrease the occurrence or intensity of oral mucositis in cancer patients. However, there are indications that certain zinc preparations may still hold promise in specific contexts, such as managing sore throat post-surgery.
Overall, while zinc's benefits in sore throat treatment appear to vary, ongoing research explores the best applications and formulations of zinc to potentially ease discomfort. As such, individuals seeking relief should keep an eye on emerging studies that could clarify zinc's role in throat health.
I ordered this on the advice of my doctors after having Covid to boost my immunity. I am pleased with the results; the symptoms bothering me, such as sore throat and fatigue, have gone.
Read More
9
Immunity improvement
This is one of the best zinc options, with the picolinate form ensuring high absorption. It effectively combats colds and sore throats while greatly improving my immunity and overall health.
Read More
9
Sore throat solution
My husband frequently experiences sore throats. After he started taking zinc regularly, we've completely forgotten about them.
Read More
7.5
Effective relief
1 people found this helpful
Super! It helps well with sore throats, flu and colds. It is also beneficial for acne and hair loss.
Read More
9
Rapid response
I take it immediately when I sense an onset of illness, including sore throat or sneezing, and within a day or two, it clears up.
A sore throat, also known as pharyngitis, is a common condition characterized by pain, scratchiness, or irritation of the throat. It can occur as a result of various factors, including viral infections like the common cold or flu, bacterial infections such as strep throat, allergies, dry air, or even irritants like smoke and pollution. Symptoms often manifest as a sensation of discomfort during swallowing and may be accompanied by swelling, redness, or the presence of white patches on the tonsils or throat lining.
Most sore throats are mild and resolve on their own within a week or so, often treated with home remedies such as warm salt water gargles, lozenges, and hydration. However, if the sore throat is severe, persistent, or associated with other concerning symptoms such as high fever, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional, as this may indicate a more serious condition that requires medical intervention. Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial, especially if a bacterial infection is suspected, as it may necessitate antibiotics for effective treatment.
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 effects on the immune system, and some evidence suggests it may help alleviate sore throat symptoms. Particularly, zinc lozenges or syrups may shorten the duration of a sore throat when taken at the onset of symptoms. The reasoning behind this is that zinc can inhibit the replication of the virus responsible for the cold and boost immune response, thus potentially providing some relief.
However, it’s important to use zinc cautiously, as high doses can lead to side effects such as nausea or a bad taste in the mouth. Most health experts recommend opting for zinc in moderate doses, ideally through lozenges, which can also provide some soothing effects. While zinc might not be a cure-all, it can be a helpful part of a broader treatment plan that includes rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers. If your sore throat persists or is accompanied by other severe symptoms, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report seeing relief from sore throats within a day or two of starting the supplement. For instance, one user noted that their sore throat cleared up within two days of taking zinc after sensing the onset of illness Read Review. Similarly, another respondent mentioned that they experience significant alleviation of discomfort when taking zinc lozenges every two hours at the onset of a sore throat Read Review.
Furthermore, several reviews highlight that users take the supplement promptly when they feel the first signs of a cold or sore throat, often leading to quick alleviation of symptoms Read Review. In general, most users seem to appreciate the quick response time of the supplement, with a significant number seeing results quite rapidly.
The scientific research generally supports the use of zinc, particularly in combination with other ingredients like honey and propolis, as a potentially effective treatment for sore throat, especially in children. A study involving a dietary supplement containing these ingredients showed improved symptoms such as throat pain and difficulty swallowing when used alongside standard care compared to standard treatment alone [1]. Another trial also pointed towards the effectiveness of zinc in reducing sore throat symptoms, though it was challenging to isolate zinc's effects from other components like Pelargonium sidoides and propolis [2].
However, it's important to note that not all studies have demonstrated clear benefits of zinc for sore throat. For instance, research into zinc gargles for postoperative sore throat showed similar effectiveness to other treatments, indicating that zinc may not significantly reduce sore throat incidence or severity [3]. Overall, while zinc's inclusion in certain supplements appears promising, more research is needed to clarify its effectiveness as a standalone treatment and to understand how it interacts with other ingredients in different formulations.
According to user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in their symptoms, particularly regarding sore throats and overall immunity. One user noted that after following their doctor's advice post-Covid, they found relief from sore throat and fatigue after starting zinc Read Review. Another respondent shared a similar experience, stating that their husband has since forgotten about his frequent sore throats after incorporating zinc into his routine Read Review. Moreover, users frequently mention taking zinc as soon as they feel symptoms arise, often observing that discomfort subsides within a day or two Read Review.
Beyond just sore throats, several reviews highlight improvements in overall health and immunity benefits from zinc supplementation. Users report feeling that zinc works quickly, with one noting it alleviates sore throat pain within just a day or two of usage Read Review. Additionally, some find it beneficial for managing other issues, such as skin health and flu-like symptoms Read Review. While individual results can vary, the predominant theme from feedback is that users experience rapid and effective relief when using zinc at the onset of symptoms.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining this zinc supplement with other remedies or using it alongside traditional approaches to managing sore throat symptoms. For instance, some individuals recommended using zinc lozenges every couple of hours right at the onset of a sore throat, noting that this significantly alleviates discomfort Read Review. Additionally, others have mentioned finding zinc particularly beneficial when taken alongside other health practices, pointing out substantial relief not only from sore throats but also from cold symptoms overall Read Review.
Many reviews highlight the effectiveness of zinc as a sole supplement for sore throat relief, with users indicating that they take it promptly at the first signs of illness Read Review. Despite praising its efficacy, a few users noted mixed experiences regarding specific formulations or dosages that may not suit everyone Read Review. Overall, there seems to be a consensus on zinc's quick-response ability when tackling sore throat symptoms and its compatibility with other health-focused supplements and practices.
The optimal zinc dose for treating sore throat remains a complex question due to varying study parameters and formulations. One trial highlighted the efficacy of zinc lozenges at a dose of 40 mg, showcasing a significant reduction in postoperative sore throat (POST) incidents when taken shortly before surgery [7]. Though this emphasizes the potential of zinc in reducing sore throat discomfort, definitive dosing guidelines for sore throat treatment specifically remain elusive, mainly due to the challenges in isolating zinc's effects from other compounded ingredients used in supplements.
For instance, a study investigating zinc in combination with honey and propolis suggested that while improvements in sore throat symptoms were noted, attributing specific benefits solely to zinc was difficult [1]. Thus, while the 40 mg zinc dose is noted for its impact in certain contexts, overall recommendations are still primarily geared towards general adjunctive treatments rather than precise dosing specifications for sore throat relief.
7.5
Child's relief
Excellent zinc! It has stopped hair loss and helped my child recover from a sore throat within two days.
7.5
Alleviates sore throat
I bought it for myself, and I always take it. Previously, I took it in picolinate form, but I decided to try these lozenges and have not regretted it at all. They have a very pleasant taste and help to soothe my throat when resorbed. Occasionally, zinc in pharmaceutical forms can make me feel nauseous, but with these lozenges, there were no such issues. I recommend taking it every two hours at the onset of a sore throat as it significantly alleviates the discomfort.
9
Immediate relief
Zinc is an immune system powerhouse. As soon as I feel a sore throat, I take Zinc.
9
Immunity boost
1 people found this helpful
I ordered this on the advice of my doctors after having Covid to boost my immunity. I am pleased with the results; the symptoms bothering me, such as sore throat and fatigue, have gone.
9
Sore throat solution
My husband frequently experiences sore throats. After he started taking zinc regularly, we've completely forgotten about them.
9
Rapid response
I take it immediately when I sense an onset of illness, including sore throat or sneezing, and within a day or two, it clears up.
7.5
Pain relief
At the time of colds and sore throats, I found it very helpful. It alleviates my pain quickly, with soreness lasting only one or two days. However, it did not effectively address my hormonal issues, unlike some other zinc formulations.
7.5
Effective relief
1 people found this helpful
Super! It helps well with sore throats, flu and colds. It is also beneficial for acne and hair loss.
9
Immunity improvement
This is one of the best zinc options, with the picolinate form ensuring high absorption. It effectively combats colds and sore throats while greatly improving my immunity and overall health.
8
Zinc's role in sore throat treatment
The Effectiveness of a Dietary Supplement with Honey, Propolis, Extract, and Zinc in Children Affected by Acute Tonsillopharyngitis: An Open, Randomized, and Controlled Trial.
We evaluated a promising dietary supplement that combines honey, propolis, and zinc to see how effective it could be for children suffering from acute tonsillopharyngitis, a type of sore throat. In this open-label, randomized, and controlled study, we compared the supplement along with standard care against standard care alone over six days.
The results revealed that incorporating the supplement with standard care led to notable improvements in certain symptoms associated with sore throat, such as throat pain and swallowing difficulties by day four and six. Although zinc was part of the blend, it was challenging to pinpoint its independent effect, given that it was studied alongside honey and propolis.
Interestingly, only one child in the standard care group needed additional medications like ibuprofen, highlighting that the supplement may reduce the need for further treatment. Importantly, we did not report any adverse events, making this combination a potential safe addition to treatment.
Overall, while the study presents encouraging results regarding the adjunctive use of the supplement in treating sore throat, it remains unclear how much zinc alone contributes to its effectiveness.
7
Zinc's role in sore throat relief
The Effects of a Dietary Supplement (PediaFlù) Plus Standard of Care in Children With Acute Tonsillopharyngitis/Rhinopharyngitis: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.
We targeted the effectiveness of a dietary supplement that includes zinc, among other ingredients, in treating acute tonsillopharyngitis and rhinopharyngitis in children. This trial was carefully designed to compare the supplement combined with standard care against standard care alone.
Our focus was on children aged 3 to 10 years suffering from sore throat symptoms. We employed a randomized, controlled setup, ensuring a solid methodological foundation for our findings. The primary goals included assessing severity of throat pain and the necessity for additional rescue medications.
The results highlighted the supplement's potential as an add-on treatment. While it shows promise in alleviating symptoms, we must note that we cannot isolate zinc's effects from other components like Pelargonium sidoides and propolis.
Ultimately, these insights could guide future treatments where antibiotics are avoided, especially when there's no streptococcal infection involved.
4
Zinc's limited impact on POST
Role of preoperative zinc, magnesium and budesonide gargles in Postoperative Sore Throat (POST) - a randomised control trial.
We conducted a thorough investigation into the impact of zinc gargles on postoperative sore throat, commonly known as POST. In our recent randomized control trial, we focused on patients undergoing elective surgeries requiring general anesthesia and found a sizable number experiencing POST.
We compared various treatments, including zinc, magnesium, and budesonide, to see which might lessen the soreness after surgery. Our findings revealed that the effects of zinc were similar to those of the other treatments. Unfortunately, we observed no significant advantage in using zinc to reduce sore throat incidence or severity.
Additionally, we noted that surgeries lasting longer than two hours tended to increase the likelihood of POST, regardless of the treatment used. This indicates that the duration of the surgery is an important factor to consider when evaluating sore throat outcomes, rather than solely the preoperative treatments administered.
9
Zinc reduces postoperative sore throat
The Effect of Zinc Lozenge on Postoperative Sore Throat: A Prospective Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Study.
We explored the potential benefits of zinc lozenges for easing postoperative sore throat (POST), a common discomfort following endotracheal intubation. By conducting a randomized, double-blinded trial with 79 patients undergoing low- to moderate-risk surgeries, we divided participants into two groups: one received zinc lozenges, while the other was given a placebo.
Our findings revealed promising results. At the crucial four-hour mark post-surgery, only 7% of patients who took zinc experienced POST, compared to 29% in the placebo group. Interestingly, the difference was even more pronounced right after surgery, where the zinc group reported a 0% incidence of POST versus 24% for the control group.
Moreover, the severity of sore throat symptoms was notably less intense among those in the zinc group. Those with mild and moderate sore throat pains reported significantly lower severity scores. These results suggest that a single dose of 40 mg of zinc lozenges taken just 30 minutes before surgery can greatly aid in reducing both the occurrence and discomfort of POST in the early hours after surgery.
References
Cardinale F, Barattini DF, Martinucci V, Bordea MM, Barattini L, et al. The Effectiveness of a Dietary Supplement with Honey, Propolis, Extract, and Zinc in Children Affected by Acute Tonsillopharyngitis: An Open, Randomized, and Controlled Trial. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2024;17. doi:10.3390/ph17060804
Cardinale F, Barattini DF, Sbrocca F, Centi A, Giuntini G, et al. The Effects of a Dietary Supplement (PediaFlù) Plus Standard of Care in Children With Acute Tonsillopharyngitis/Rhinopharyngitis: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc. 2024;13:e53703. doi:10.2196/53703
Bhanwra A, Palta S, Saroa R, Saxena P, Bhanwra S, et al. Role of preoperative zinc, magnesium and budesonide gargles in Postoperative Sore Throat (POST) - a randomised control trial. BMC Anesthesiol. 2024;24:164. doi:10.1186/s12871-024-02534-5
Mondal AK, Maiti AK, Chattopadhyay S, Bhar D. A randomised, double-blind, comparative study of preoperative magnesium sulphate versus zinc sulphate gargle for prevention of postoperative sore throat following endotracheal intubation. Indian J Anaesth. 2023;67:S261. doi:10.4103/ija.ija_975_22
Sarkar T, Mandal T. Preoperative oral zinc tablet decreases incidence of postoperative sore throat. Indian J Anaesth. 2020;64:409. doi:10.4103/ija.IJA_959_19
Thomsen M, Vitetta L. Zinc deficits, mucositis, and mucosal macrophage perturbation: is there a relationship?. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2019;22:365. doi:10.1097/MCO.0000000000000588
Farhang B, Grondin L. The Effect of Zinc Lozenge on Postoperative Sore Throat: A Prospective Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Study. Anesth Analg. 2018;126:78. doi:10.1213/ANE.0000000000002494
Sun GB, Sun N, Tang HH, Zhu QB, Wen W, et al. Zinc sulfate therapy of vocal process granuloma. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2012;269:2087. doi:10.1007/s00405-012-1971-1
Prasad AS, Fitzgerald JT, Bao B, Beck FW, Chandrasekar PH. Duration of symptoms and plasma cytokine levels in patients with the common cold treated with zinc acetate. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Ann Intern Med. 2000;133:245.