Zinc tablets could be key to beating the common cold
IT is not quite a cure for the common cold – but it’s the next best thing.
Taking zinc tablets can significantly reduce the amount of time we are under the weather.
A study found 70 per cent of people who took the tablets felt better by the fifth day, compared to just 27 per cent who did not.
While previous research on zinc’s effectiveness has been mixed, this time patients were given much higher doses in the form of zinc acetate tablets.
Dr Harri Hemila and colleagues from the University of Helsinki studied data from three trials involving around 200 people.
‘The three-fold increase in the rate of recovery from the common cold is a clinically important effect,’ Dr Hemila said. ‘Given the evidence of efficacy, common cold patients may be instructed to try zinc acetate lozenges within 24 hours of onset of symptoms.’
However more work was needed on the most effective formulation and how often it should be taken.
Most colds are caused by a type of bug called rhinovirus, which thrives and multiplies in the nasal passages and throat. Zinc may work by preventing the rhinovirus from multiplying and stop it lodging in mucous membranes in the respiratory system.
The effect was not altered by allergies, smoking or the cold’s severity, researchers found. As the results were similar across age, sex and ethnic groups, the swifter recovery rate was applicable to all. The dose was between
‘Take within 24 hours’
80 to 92mg a day – much higher than the recommended 11mg for men and 8mg for women. However none of the patients showed any side effects and zinc has safely been administered in much higher doses for other conditions. But Dr Hemila warned most lozenges in shops do not come in high enough doses to treat a cold.
He said: ‘Given the strong evidence of efficacy and the low risk of adverse effects, common cold patients may already be encouraged to try zinc acetate lozenges not exceeding 100mg of elemental zinc per day for treating their colds.’
Zinc is important for the immune system and too little in the diet is known to increase the risk of infection. The latest findings confirm previous studies by Dr Hemila’s team, as well as those by Cardiff University’s Common Cold Centre.
The NHS says there is some evidence taking zinc within 24 hours of the symptoms starting may shorten a cold.
But long-term use is not recommended as it could cause side effects such as nausea and a bad taste in the mouth. NHS experts say more research is needed to find out the best dose.