From PolitiFact · Grace Abels · · 1m 30s
Zinc Lozenges May Shorten Colds
Zinc lozenges can shorten colds by 2.4 days but require high doses and proper form.
In brief
Zinc lozenges can shorten colds by 2.4 days but require high doses and proper form. Zinc lozenges may reduce cold duration by 2.4 days when taken in high doses, but regular use risks side effects. Originally reported by PolitiFact.
Zinc Lozenges for Cold Treatment
Zinc lozenges have become a popular cold treatment, but evidence about their effectiveness is mixed.
Zinc May Shorten Colds
A 2024 Cochrane review found zinc may reduce cold duration by 2.4 days compared to placebo.
Zinc Dose Variability
Zinc doses in studies ranged from 0.044 milligrams to 296 milligrams per day across different formulations.
Zinc Lozenges Require High Doses
Daily doses over 75 milligrams of zinc lozenges show cold-shortening benefits, but common brands contain only 11-13 milligrams.
Zinc Side Effects
Zinc lozenges can cause nausea, bad taste, and diarrhea, which may deter regular use.
Zinc Safety Concerns
Zinc doses up to 40 milligrams daily are safe for short-term cold treatment but risk copper deficiency with regular use.
Zinc Nasal Sprays Risk Smell Loss
Zinc nasal sprays have been linked to permanent smell loss, leading to FDA warnings about several products.
Expert Recommendations
Dr. Harri Hemilä and Dr. Mark H. Ebell advise consulting a doctor before adding zinc lozenges to your routine.
Zinc for Cold Treatment
Zinc lozenges may shorten colds by 2.4 days when taken in high doses, but regular use risks side effects.
The takeaway
Zinc lozenges may reduce cold duration by 2.4 days when taken in high doses, but regular use risks side effects.
