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Zinc lozenges: cold cure or candy? Solution chemistry determinations.
1George Eby Research, Austin, Texas 78736, USA. george.eby@starband.net
Bioscience Reports
|October 27, 2004
Summary
Zinc gluconate lozenges may shorten common colds. A re-analysis of clinical trials suggests that the efficacy of zinc for colds depends on the dosage of positively charged zinc species, impacting cold duration.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology and Virology
- Solution Chemistry
Background:
- Early research in 1984 indicated zinc gluconate lozenges could reduce common cold duration by up to 7 days.
- Subsequent clinical trials (1984-2004) yielded inconsistent results regarding zinc's effectiveness against the common cold.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reasons for the varying efficacy of zinc gluconate in treating the common cold.
- To apply solution chemistry principles to re-analyze existing clinical trial data.
Main Methods:
- Re-analysis of 10 double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials on zinc lozenges for common colds.
- Application of solution chemistry methods to determine the speciation and dosage of zinc compounds used.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant correlation was found between the total daily dosage of positively charged zinc species and reduced cold duration.
- Specifically, higher dosages of active zinc ions correlated with shorter median (p=0.005) and mean (p<0.02) cold durations.
Conclusions:
- The efficacy of zinc gluconate lozenges in shortening the common cold is dependent on the specific zinc species and their dosage.
- Solution chemistry provides a framework for understanding and potentially optimizing zinc-based cold remedies.