title: Reduction in duration of common colds by zinc gluconate lozenges in a double-blind study.
abstract: As a possible treatment for common colds, we tested zinc gluconate lozenges in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trial. One 23-mg zinc lozenge or matched placebo was dissolved in the mouth every 2 wakeful h after an initial double dose. After 7 days, 86% of 37 zinc-treated subjects were asymptomatic, compared with only 46% of 28 placebo-treated subjects (P = 0.0005). Side effects or complaints were usually minor and consisted mainly of objectionable taste and mouth irritation. Zinc lozenges shortened the average duration of common colds by about 7 days.
mesh_terms: D000284:Administration, Oral; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003139:Common Cold / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D005942:Gluconates / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015032:Zinc / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects
chemical_list: D005942:Gluconates; D015032:Zinc; C030691:gluconic acid