Zinc Lozenges as a Common Cold Treatment [Non-Functional Lozenges on the Market]

Buy the world's fastest acting zinc lozenges here  Zinc Lozenges as a Common Cold Treatment   By George Eby Email:' george.eby'' at' george-eby-research.com  Revision date: May 11, 2014   Purpose:' Zinc lozenges have only one basic use, that being a common cold treatment.' The table below is a review of commercial zinc lozenges sold in retail stores in the United States or on the Internet.' In academic/medical journals over the last 20 years, the response from zinc lozenges in common cold treatment has ranged from a 7 day reduction in duration of common colds, to a 4. 5 day increase in the duration of common colds, worsening colds.' Most zinc lozenges marketed have chemistry similar to the lozenges tested in those 15 clinical trials.'' Consequently, the buyer of zinc lozenges may purchase lozenges that worsen colds, do nothing, or shorten the duration of colds.' Careful study of this analysis will be useful in identifying the zinc lozenge right for you.'  Background:' The only biological effects of zinc lozenges are due to ionic zinc (iZn), which is available at physiologic pH 7.4 only from a few zinc compounds, mainly zinc acetate and zinc gluconate.' The biological effects of ionic zinc include antirhinoviral, ICAM-1 inhibition, and interferon induction and immune system benefits.' No other zinc compounds release sufficient ionic zinc at physiologic pH 7.4 (pH of mouth and nose) to have a beneficial effect as a common cold treatment.' Response to the zinc lozenges is believed completely dependent upon the zinc lozenge chemistry in the formulations and dosages used and the time of zinc lozenge oral dissolution.' The lozenges must slowly dissolve over a 20 to 30 minute time period for efficacy to be observed, because only the ionic zinc absorbed into the oral tissues, which requires time, has any benefit in treating colds.' Swallowed zinc has no effect on colds.' Swallowing zinc is not necessary for efficacy to result.' The chemistry of zinc lozenges is very complicated (solution equilibrium chemistry ' a branch of inorganic biochemistry) and is well beyond the training and scope of nearly all zinc lozenge manufacturers and formulators.' The interested chemist/scientist/physician can learn something about this science by reading "Zinc Lozenges:' Cold Cure or Candy' Solution Chemistry Determinations'.' Other applicable data sources are found here.' All of the zinc lozenges found on this page are believed to provide nutritional support.  Latest report:' The latest report on zinc lozenges and their efficacy is 'Zinc lozenges as cure for the common cold ' A review and hypothesis' published in 2010.' The main conclusions (last two sentences in Abstract) of that report read:' 'Zinc lozenges slowly dissolving in the mouth over a 20'30 min period releasing adequate iZn (>18 mg) used each 2 h shorten common colds by 6'7 days, which is a cure for the common cold.' Due to inadequate lozenge iZn, very few of more than 40 different brands of zinc lozenges on the US market are expected to have any effect on the duration or severity of common colds.'' This should be a warning to the reader.' Nearly all of the OTC zinc lozenges found in retail stores appear patterned after zinc lozenges that failed clinical trials. ''''''' ''''''''''''''''' Zinc compounds used in lozenges:' Most zinc lozenges are marketed as 'zinc gluconate', 'zinc gluconate-glycine' or 'zinc acetate' lozenges, although there are several other types on the market.' One would expect to receive 'zinc gluconate' when one purchases 'zinc gluconate' lozenges, and 'zinc acetate' when one buys 'zinc acetate' lozenges.' However, manufacturers nearly always add other ingredients, such as food acids designated as 'inactive' ingredients, usually to improve lozenge flavor or to increase market appeal, for example by adding vitamin C (ascorbic acid), or other ingredients.' These 'inactive' ingredients are actually very 'active' chemically and they react with the highly ionizable zinc compounds used to produce other zinc compounds through solid state reactions after the zinc lozenges are manufactured.' These reactions continue from the date of manufacturer until usage, and they may also occur in the saliva of people using those zinc lozenges.' These other ingredients are necessary flavor masks in zinc gluconate lozenges since zinc gluconate reacts with all carbohydrate sweeteners (except fructose) to form very bitter compositions.' Consequently, the other ingredients act as flavor masks by converting the zinc gluconate to another zinc compound that does not have the terribly bitter taste of zinc gluconate.' Citric acid, ascorbic acid and glycine are the usual flavor masks; and glycine always diminishes or eliminates iZn, while citric and ascorbic acid usually completely eliminate ionic zinc (iZn), rendering the product useless.' Zinc acetate lozenges are flavor stable and pleasant tasting without added chemicals and provide a much better source of ionic zinc, yet zinc acetate is relatively uncommon in zinc lozenges.' The consequence of these added ingredients are known to solution chemists (since they can calculate it based on libraries of solution chemistry data ), but these consequences are usually not known to other scientists, manufacturers, formulators, physicians or the public. ' '''''''''''''''' What zinc compounds release bioactive ionic zinc (iZn)?' The mouth knows!' Ionic zinc (the active ingredient) always tastes astringent and orally drying and metallic.' Lozenges containing substantial iZn do not taste like candy!' ''  Analysis of zinc lozenge compositions using solution equilibrium chemistry techniques produced the following amount of ionizable zinc (iZn' - the active ingredient) at physiologic pH 7.4: ' Zinc acetate yields 100% iZn. ' Zinc gluconate yields 72% iZn. ' Zinc gluconate-glycinate yields <57% iZn. ' Zinc gluconate + citric acid (or zinc citrate) yields 0% iZn. ' Zinc aspartate yields 0% iZn. ' Zinc oxide yields 0% iZn.  '''''''''''''''' NOTICE:' Manufacturers may change their formulas without notice, and the reader is recommended to check the list of 'inactive' ingredients and search for additives that may result in a change in zinc lozenge chemistry (mainly food acids such as amino, citric and ascorbic acids, as well as inactive zinc compounds like zinc oxide, zinc aspartate, zinc citrate and zinc picolinate).' These data in the table below are believed accurate and they use the best information available, but without much more clinical data on efficacy, there remain questions that must remain unanswered and there may be some incorrect assumptions and expectations.'  None of these products are recommended for serious diseases such as influenza.   ''''''''''''''''' Safety of zinc lozenges:' The use of large amounts of zinc (as may occur with use of these zinc lozenges) for 7 days or less is not believed to be harmful according to Dr. Ananda S. Prasad, MD, PhD, the godfather of zinc biochemistry, and these large doses may result in other observed benefits such as elimination of menstrual cramping and bloating in women and elimination of angina pectoris and Reynaud's disease, showing important cardiovascular benefits.' However, extended use, (for considerably longer than 1 week) is not recommended since reversible immune system impairment may occur with extended use of high dose zinc. The main side effect of large doses of zinc is nausea, which may become sufficiently severe to cause prolonged vomiting, which is an indication of zinc overdose.' If overdose occurs, immediately stop ingesting zinc.  ''''''''''''''''' Lack of safety of intranasal zinc (nose drops, nasal sprays, nasal gels):' This table does not include information on zinc nose drops, zinc nasal sprays, or zinc nasal gels.' Intranasal zinc has been known since before 1938 to carry a risk of anosmia (loss of the sense of smell).' This means spraying ionic zinc into the nose may result in contact of the zinc with the olfactory bulb which is in the top of the nose, which will cause excruciating, unremitting pain and persistent anosmia (loss of the sense of smell) which appears to be a permanent condition.' Much more information is available here.  '''''''''''''''' The big table below:' The following table presents the zinc lozenge products found on the Internet and analyses them chemically from the list of ingredients given by the manufacturer, and shows the author's expert opinion of what results he expects from use of those lozenges.' George Eby's expert status on zinc lozenges and common cold treatment can be verified at the eTblast expert finder which uses the rank number of academic/medical journal articles published to determine expertise.'  Invention!' George Eby invented zinc lozenges as a cure for common colds (U.S. Patent # 5409905).' There are no active, basic patents on zinc lozenges as a common cold treatment remaining.' To see all of George Eby's medical journal articles, click here.' To go to George Eby's home page (many natural treatments for diseases) click here.' The table below presents: ' (1) the product (with a link to a sales site) / manufacturer, (2) George Eby's expert opinion of what results he expects and alternative possibilities or suggestions for use, (3) directions on zinc lozenge packaging and any alternative directions, (4) the zinc compound listed on the label (with link to solution chemistry computation of zinc compound used), (5) the zinc compound expected after reactions with 'inactive' lozenge ingredients (with link to solution chemistry computation of zinc compound expected), and milligrams of iZn (the active ingredient) per lozenge, (6) a link to the academic/medical journal article most nearly representing the product from the perspective of the chemistry of the lozenge, and (7) comments.  How listed?' Zinc lozenges are listed according to the amount of iZn available from each zinc lozenge, which may or may not correlate with efficacy.' Be certain to check out the least effective, because it may substantially increase the duration of colds. For more information:' Send email to: george.eby 'at' george-eby-research.com ''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''  Product name  Distributor  Expected Results Against Common Colds  Directions on Label  Zinc compound claimed on label   Ionizable zinc' expected after reacting with other lozenge ingredients.  (mg of iZn)   Academic / medical research article most applicable to product  Comments  'manufacturer's comments'  'Eby comments (without quotation marks) Ebys' Zinc Acetate 5 to 7 day reduction in duration of START THERAPY WITH 2 Zincum aceticum 2X (zinc acetate) Zincum aceticum 2X (zinc acetate) Prasad 2000 These are sweet, peppermint flavored lozenges, but are Lozenges  by Eby Pharma LLC  (out of business) common colds and reduction in severity of all common cold symptoms when used as directed.'  Their benefits extend to reduction in respiratory allergy symptoms, with each lozenge providing benefits lasting for 3 to 6 hours in allergy treatment.'  LOZENGES, ONE AFTER ANOTHER, AT THE FIRST SIGN OF A COLD (A SCRATCHY THROAT).' After initial dose slowly dissolve one lozenge in mouth every two hours, with one before bedtime ' maximum 8 lozenges / day [144 mg elemental zinc].' Do not skip doses or stop taking doses until common cold symptoms have been absent for 6 hours.    (18 mg zinc)   18 mg iZn  Petrus 1998  Prasad 2008  ColdCure' Lozenges are much stronger than the lozenges tested by Prasad (12.8 and 13.3 mg iZn) and the 9 mg lozenges tested by Petrus.'  astringent, drying and metallic tasting, which are representative of iZn.  These are the strongest, best tasting zinc lozenges available.'  A 'boutique' and rare product without retail distribution. Currently marketed as a 'dietary supplement'. Zinx' Lozenges  By Auriga Laboratories  (out of business)   3 to 4 day reduction in duration of common colds and reduction in severity of all common cold symptoms when used as directed.'  Their benefits extend to reduction in respiratory allergy symptoms, with each lozenge providing benefits lasting for 3 to 6 hours in allergy START THERAPY WITH 2 LOZENGES, ONE AFTER ANOTHER, AT THE FIRST SIGN OF A COLD (A SCRATCHY THROAT).' After initial dose slowly dissolve one lozenge in mouth every two hours, with one before bedtime Zincum aceticum 2X (zinc acetate)   (14 mg zinc) Zincum aceticum 2X (zinc acetate)   14 mg iZn Prasad 2000  Petrus 1998  Prasad 2008  Zinx' Lozenges are stronger than the lozenges tested by Prasad (12.8 and 13.3 mg iZn) and the 9 mg lozenges tested by Petrus. These were peppermint flavored lozenges, and were astringent, drying and metallic tasting, which are representative of iZn.  These were the' second strongest zinc lozenges available.' They were labeled and marketed as a homeopathic common cold treatment. Fast Dry' Zinc Lozenges  By F&F Foods:  (out of production) 3 to 4 day reduction in duration of common colds and reduction in severity of all common cold symptoms when used as directed. 'Allow one lozenge to dissolve in the mouth every 2 hours.'   zinc acetate   (14 mg zinc) zinc acetate   14 mg iZn Prasad 2008  Fast Dry' Lozenges are slightly stronger (14 mg iZn) than the lozenges tested by These were pleasant cherry flavored hard candy (not compressed) lozenges, but were astringent, drying and metallic tasting, which are representative of iZn.     ' Benefits extend to reduction in respiratory allergy symptoms, with each lozenge providing benefits lasting 2 to 4 hours.'  No common cold claims are allowed by the manufacturer.  Prasad (12.8 and 13.3 mg iZn) and substantially stronger than the 9 mg zinc lozenges tested by Petrus.' F&F Foods made the 13.3 mg zinc acetate lozenges tested by Prasad in 2008.  These were the only effective hard candy zinc lozenges available.  No drug claims and no marketing support. Zicam Rapid Melts' '  By Matrixx Initiatives.  (no longer contains zinc)  One day reduction in duration with reduction in symptom severity when used as directed. ' Dissolve entire tablet in mouth. Do not chew. Do not swallow whole.' Take one tablet at the onset of symptoms.' Repeat every three hours until symptoms are gone. For best results, use for an additional 48 hours after symptoms subside.' Do not eat or drink 15 minutes after use. Do not eat or drink citrus fruits or juices for 30 minutes before or after. Otherwise, drink plenty of fluids.  Homeopathic treatment for common colds Zincum Aceticum, (zinc acetate  Zincum Gluconicum (Zinc Gluconate)  (13.3 mg zinc)  NOTE:' Some variations have large amounts of Vitamin C in them, and these may not release ionic zinc.' No data. Zincum Aceticum, (zinc acetate)  Zincum Gluconicum (Zinc Gluconate)  10.4 mg iZn  Efficacy was predicted by the large amount of ionic zinc, but the rapid melting interferes with oral absorption, which is necessary for absorption. None.  Clinical trials are needed to support manufacturer claims of efficacy in reducing the duration and severity of common colds.'  Since Fick's laws of membrane permeability apply, little results can be expected when a necessary variable 'time of contact' approaches zero. Tablet dissolves too fast for significant oral absorption of ionic zinc to have major impact on duration of colds.' Nearly all is swallowed.  Reasonably pleasant zinc gluconate taste with offensive zinc gluconate' aftertaste.  The longer the zincladen saliva is held in mouth, the better the results will be.''  To avoid minor stomach upset, do not take on an empty stomach.'   Cold-Free' zinc acetate lozenges  Great One to two days day reduction in duration with reduction in symptom severity when used as Allow one lozenge to dissolve in the mouth every 1 to 1.5 hours.' zinc acetate   zinc acetate   Petrus 1998  Cold-Free' zinc acetate lozenges were These were sweet, hard candy and compressed highly flavored lozenges, but were astringent, drying and metallic tasting, which are American Nutrition  (out of production) directed.  Its benefits are likely to extend to reduction in respiratory allergy symptoms, with each lozenge providing benefits in allergy treatment lasting for 2 to 4 hours. (9 mg zinc) 9 mg zinc the 9 mg lozenges tested by Petrus.' representative of iZn.  These lozenges were removed from the market because the FDA held that the name 'Cold-Free' was an unauthorized drug claim and because the company would not avail itself of the homeopathic drug laws.   Cepacol' ColdCareTM zinc acetate lozenges  (out of production)    One to two days day reduction in duration with reduction in symptom severity when used as directed.  Its benefits are likely to extend to reduction in respiratory allergy symptoms, with each lozenge providing benefits in allergy treatment lasting for 2 to 4 hours. Allow one lozenge to dissolve in the mouth every 1 to 1.5 hours. Zincum aceticum 2X (zinc acetate)   (9 mg zinc) zinc acetate   9 mg zinc Petrus 1998  Cold-Care' zinc acetate lozenges were the effective 9 mg zinc lozenges tested by Petrus. These were sweet, compressed lozenges, but were astringent, drying and metallic tasting, which are representative of iZn.  These lozenges were removed from the market because the FDA held that the name 'Cold-Care' was an unauthorized drug claim and because the company would not avail itself of the homeopathic drug laws. Cold-Eeze '  by Quigley 'Get well faster'  One to two days reduction in duration and reduction in symptoms severity.  Its benefits are likely to extend to reduction in For maximum effectiveness start taking lozenges at the first sign of a cold. Best within 48 hours. Completely dissolve a lozenge in mouth. Do not chew. Repeat every2 to 4 hours as needed. Recommended daily dose of lozenges is 6 Zinc Gluconate Glycine  (13.3 mg zinc) Zinc Gluconate Glycine  7.6 mg iZn Godfrey 1992 (original ZGG trial)  McElroy 2003 (Children's Cold Eeze')  There are no indications of harmfulness in The 3 to 4 day reduction in duration and '42% reduction' claimed are believed overstated.' There has been wide variation in clinical trial results of ColdEeze, with results ranging from a half day increase in duration to 4 days reduction in duration as shown in this 2004 report.' There are a variety respiratory allergy symptoms, with each lozenge providing benefits in allergy treatment lasting for 2 to 6 hours.' ' drops per day.  Homeopathic common cold treatment any of the published medical literature reviewed.'  There are several medical journal articles that dispute efficacy. of Cold-Eeze' products, and some have not been clinically tested.  Zinc Lozenges  By Walgreens 'Get well faster'  One to two days reduction in duration and reduction in symptoms severity.  Its benefits are likely to extend to reduction in respiratory allergy symptoms, with each lozenge providing benefits in allergy treatment lasting for 2 to 6 hours.'  For best results, begin treatment at start of symptoms (within 24 to 48 hours) of onset. Repeat every2 to 4 hours as needed until symptoms subside.' Completely dissolve a lozenge in mouth (do not chew). Recommended daily dose of lozenges is 6 lozenges for adults and 4 lozenges for ages 12-17.'  Homeopathic common cold remedy. Zinc Gluconate Glycine  (13.3 mg zinc) Zinc Gluconate Glycine  7.6 mg iZn Godfrey 1992 (original ZGG trial)  McElroy 2003 (Children's Cold Eeze')  There are no indications of harmfulness in any of the published medical literature reviewed.'  There are several medical journal articles that dispute efficacy.   This appears to be an exact copy of the Quigley Cold Eeze product.  'Lozenges are formulated to reduce the duration of common cold symptoms and may be insufficient treatment for influenza or allergies.''  NOTE: No zinc lozenge is sufficient for influenza, and this 'flu' label comment may be viewed critically by the FDA.' This product should be effective against allergies for 2 to 6 hours.   Zeus Zinc Lozenges  By Olympian Labs Products No benefit expected. Zinc lozenges are most effective if taken at the first sign of symptoms, ideally within 24 hours. Then it is recommended that a lozenge be taken every two hours while awake for maximal efficacy. Zinc Gluconate  (1 mg zinc) Zinc Gluconate  0.72 mg iZn None.'' There are no clinical trials in support of this product.' 'Zinc Lozenges may help you through tough cold seasons as well as relieve symptoms from allergies.' Zinc has been shown to reduce the average duration of colds and reduce the severity of cold symptoms.'  Cold Tablets with Zinc  By Hyland's    No benefit expected. Adults: Dissolve 2 to 3 tablets under tongue every 4 hours or as needed. Children 6 to 12 years: 1/2 adult dose. Homeopathic. 100% Natural, no side effects. Soft tablets dissolve instantly. This all natural homeopathic formula works without side effects and won't interact with other medications-day or night. Zinc Gluconate  (0.24 mg zinc) Zinc Gluconate  0.18 mg iZn None.'' There are no clinical trials in support of this product.' Active Ingredients: Aconitum Napellus 6x HPUS, Allium Cepa 6x HPUS, Zinc Gluconate 6X HPUS, Gelsemium Sempervirens 6X HPUS.  'Hyland's Cold Tablets with Zinc Quick dissolving tablets provide fast natural relief from symptoms of the common cold.' No Time for Colds '  By SmartScience Laboratories, Inc. 'No benefit expected Begin at first sign of cold.' Dissolve lozenge in mouth.' Repeat in 30 minutes and each 3 hours.' Up to 5 lozenges per day.  Homeopathic common cold treatment Zinc Gluconate  (13.1 mg zinc)   Zinc citrate  0 mg iZn Turner 2004  The only difference between the product Turner studied and this product is the addition of citric acid as a flavor mask, which eliminates all iZn.' There should be no differences in results.  The symptomatic relief is believed produced by troxerutin, one of the inactive ingredients.'  'There is NO unpleasant metallic aftertaste like that experienced when taking many of the other zinc cold remedies.' Ultra Zinc' Lozenges  by GNC No benefit expected  No common cold claims are made by the manufacturer.''' As a dietary supplement, take two to six lozenges daily, preferably after a meal. Allow the lozenge to dissolve slowly in the mouth. Do not chew. Zinc oxide  (20 mg zinc) Zinc oxide  0 mg iZn None.' There are no clinical trials in support of this product.' Zinc oxide is only slightly soluble in water, and is essentially nonionizable and does not release zinc ions (iZn) sufficient to have an effect on common colds or rhinoviruses.  Chelated Zinc Lozenges No benefit expected when used once or Dissolve one lozenge in mouth one or two times 'Zinc citrate and Zinc Gluconate Zinc citrate and zinc gluconatecitrate Farr 1987 These lozenges should taste like candy and function  By Puritan's Pride twice daily as recommended.' May lengthen colds by one day if used too frequently.'  daily. Do not exceed two per day.  (23 mg zinc) 0 mg iZn like candy.'' They appear to have been patterned after the failed zinc gluconate-citrate lozenges of Farr et al, 1987. Sootherbs'zinc lozenges  by Amerifit. No benefit expected, although colds might be slightly worsened and might last a half day longer.  Take 1 lozenge every 3-4 hours. Allow lozenge to dissolve in your mouth. Zinc Liposome; Zinc citrate  '(10 mg zinc) Zinc citrate  0 mg iZn Farr 1987 'THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.' Zinc Lozenges  By Douglas Laboratories No benefit expected. As a dietary supplement, adults take One (1) lozenge every Two (2) hours while awake, or as directed by physician. Allow to dissolve completely in the mouth. Do not exceed Ten (10) per day. Children over the age of Four (4) years may use half the adult dose.  Zinc glycinate  (10 mg zinc) Zinc glycinate  0 mg iZn None.  There are no clinical trials in support of this product.  'Numerous studies support the fundamental role of zinc in normal immune response in humans. Immune cells must be able to rapidly divide in order to respond to daily challenges. Like all rapidly dividing cells, immune cells depend on adequate amounts of dietary zinc.' Zinc Lozenges with Cherry Flavor  by Basic Organics No benefit expected, although colds might be slightly worsened and might last a day longer. At first sign of cold symptom, take 2 Zinc lozenges.' Dissolve in mouth slowly & completely. Thereafter take 1 Lozenge every 2 hours while awake. Zinc Citrate (10mg zinc) Zinc Gluconate (5 mg zinc)  Citric acid Zinc citrate and zinc ascorbate  0 mg iZn Farr 1987 This product carries mixed signals, with advertisement reading to 'start at first sign of a cold symptoms' yet it is marketed as a '100% natural dietary supplement with zinc.'  Zinc Lozenges  By DaVinci Laboratories  No benefit expected.  No common cold claims made. Take 1 lozenge in AM and 1 lozenge in PM. Let dissolve in mouth. Zinc Gluconate  Zinc Citrate  Zinc Citrate  0 mg iZn  Farr 1987 Zinc lozenges are a great tasting lemon flavored supplement for both children and adults.  Zinc King  By 'Nutrition Now No benefit expected.  No common cold claims are made by the manufacturer. As a dietary supplement, take 2 Zinc Cold King lozenges consecutively, letting 1 completely dissolve before taking the other. Thereafter, continue taking 1 lozenge every 2 hours. zinc citrate and zinc gluconate  (15 mg zinc)  Plus 100 mg ascorbic acid. Zinc citrate  zinc ascorbate  No data  (likely to be zero) Farr 1987'  Zinc Cold King is a zinc-fortified lozenge to nutritionally support the body's defense system through the winter season. A dietary supplement to promote a healthy immune system.     Zinc Lozenges  by Bluebonnet  No benefit expected.'  No common cold claims are made by the manufacturer. ''' Use as directed. zinc gluconate  (15 mg zinc)  Plus 100 mg ascorbic acid Zinc ascorbate  No data  (likely to be zero) None.'' There are no clinical trials in support of this product.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease Elderberry & Zinc  By Now Foods  No benefit expected.  No common cold drug claims are made by the manufacturer.  As a dietary supplement, Adults: Take 2 lozenges daily. For short term high-intensity use, take 1 to 2 lozenges every 24 hours, dissolving completely in the mouth. Do not exceed 10 lozenges per day or use intense levels for more than 7 days. Zinc Gluconate  (24 mg zinc)  (300 mg ascorbic acid) Zinc ascorbate  No data  (likely to be zero)   None.'' There are no clinical trials in support of this product.  '*' Supports Immune System * Promotes Healthy Immune Function * Support for Seasonal Changes* * A Dietary Supplement 'Zinc is a trace mineral that plays an important role in supporting the immune system. Echinacea, Propolis and Slippery Elm have been.'  Halls Defense  No benefit expected  As a dietary supplement for adults, take 1 drop 4 times per Zinc sulfate (1.5 mg zinc) Zinc citrate Zinc sulfate None.' There are no clinical trials in support of this Do not use for more than 8 weeks consecutively. Do not use if you have a severe systemic By Halls No common cold claims are made by the manufacturer.''' day. Zinc ascorbate  No data  (very likely to be zero) product.' illness. Do not use if you have allergies to the daisy family (Asteraceae). Do not use if you are pregnant or breast feeding.  Cold Reduce ' Lozenges  by Healthy Relief No benefit expected.  Product label states: 'Warnings: Initial exacerbation of symptoms may occur.' Allow one lozenge to completely dissolve in the mouth, do not chew or swallow lozenge whole. Repeat every 2 hours, up to 8 lozenges per day.  'Stop use and ask a doctor if: Symptoms persist or worsen. Any new symptoms appear. Fever lasts for more than 3 days. Cough or nasal congestion lasts more than 7 days.' Zincum oxydatum (zinc oxide) 1X Zincum oxydatum  (zinc oxide) 1X  0 mg iZn None.'' There are no clinical trials in support of this product   Clinical trials are needed to support manufacturer claims of efficacy in reducing the duration and severity of common colds. This product also contains 12.58 mg of magnesium ascorbate (0.8 mg elemental magnesium).' Magnesium chloride throat lozenges containing 100 mg of elemental magnesium greatly worsened and lengthened common colds.' The incorporation of 0.8 mg of elemental magnesium in these lozenges is likely to be the cause of the exacerbation of common cold symptoms.'  See this article for a warning about the serious issue of larger doses (over 100 X this product) of ionic magnesium from throat lozenges.' Especially note the hypothetical death risk for asthmatics having rhinovirusinduced asthma. 'Zinc Lozenges' Froogle has a list of over 3,000' 'zinc lozenge' products Most are dietary supplements without drug claims.' Miscellaneous Likely to be zero Usually none 'Throat lozenges' do not appear allowed under the DSHEA of 1994.  The above table is known to be incomplete, but it is representative of zinc lozenges found in United States retail outlets and on the Internet.' Other products will be added upon request.   