Will taking zinc for colds make my colds go away faster?
Since 1984, when a study showed zinc supplements kept people from getting as sick from colds, there has been a lot of talk about taking zinc for colds. Since 1984, the research has turned up mixed results about zinc and colds.
More recent studies (1) showed that zinc lozenges or syrup reduced the length of a cold by one day, especially when taken within 24 hours of the first symptoms of a cold. Studies also showed, that taking a regular zinc supplement, might reduce the number of colds each year. Children taking zinc regularly missed less school, and required less antibiotics than otherwise healthy children.
Most colds are caused by a type of virus called rhinovirus, which thrives and multiplies in the upper respiratory system (nasal passages and throat). It has been suggested that zinc may work by preventing the rhinovirus from multiplying. It may also stop the rhinovirus from lodging in the mucous membranes of the throat and nose, which is why a lozenge form may be more effective than a spray or syrup.
I would put using zinc, officially, in the "wait for more research and see" category, as none of the studies analyzed had enough participants to meet a high standard of proof. Also, the studies used different zinc dosages and preparations (lozenges or syrup) for different lengths of time. As a result, it's not clear what the effective dose and treatment schedule would be. Unofficially, however, the use of zinc to shorten the duration of colds seems incredibly promising, and the side effects for a short term use of a zinc lozenge, looks minimal. Side effects (2) include nausea or a bad taste in the mouth. Studies do show, however, that many people who used zinc nasal sprays suffered permanent loss of smell. For this reason, (Mayo Clinic) doctors suggest using caution with such sprays.
Large amounts of zinc are toxic and can cause copper deficiency, anemia and damage to the nervous system.
Annette Marsden, M.S., C.N., recommends you talk to your doctor before considering the use of zinc to prevent or reduce the length of colds.
references:
1. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24715076
2. http://www.fda.gov/Newsevents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm167065.htm
