Zinc Acetate Lozenges Reduce Duration of Common Cold
Zinc has many benefits in the human body because it is very important in many enzyme systems that protect the human body. Much evidence also exist to suggest that zinc can help shift the immune system to a more balanced response between autoimmune disease and allergies.
Ann Intern Med 2000;133:245-252,302-303 Use of zinc acetate lozenges is associated with a reduction in severity and duration of cold symptoms, according to the results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Adverse effects were similar in both groups, although patients taking zinc reported more constipation and dry mouth. Dr. Prasad and colleagues note that patients in the zinc group received an average of 80 mg of zinc each day. While this is more than five times higher than the recommended daily intake, short-term use of zinc should not lead to copper deficiency, according to the report.