Zinc Lozenges: Immune Support & Cold Relief Guide

Zinc is one of 16 essential trace minerals your body needs for optimal health. Next to iron, it is the most abundant mineral in your body and is found in almost every cell. Zinc is central to the proper functioning of more than 300 enzymes and is essential for proper growth and development.

Zinc lozenges have drawn significant scientific attention for their ability to support immune function and reduce the severity and duration of colds. Interest in Zinc lozenges for common cold treatment started from the observation that cold symptoms in a young patient disappeared within hours when she allowed a Zinc tablet to slowly dissolve in her mouth rather than swallowing it whole — suggesting that Zinc may have beneficial local effects in the oropharyngeal region.

Beyond immune support, Zinc plays vital roles in reproduction, digestion, respiration, and proper brain, nerve, vision, and immune function. Low levels of Zinc have been detected in people with conditions including diabetes, eating disorders, male infertility, diarrhea, and osteoporosis. Zinc supplementation may be beneficial in these cases.

Zinc's biological activity derives from the Zn²⁺ ion, which participates in enzymatic catalysis across all six enzyme classes, structural protein stabilization through Zinc finger proteins, DNA synthesis and genome integrity, and immune regulation. For more than 50 years, it has been known that Zinc deficiency compromises immune function — virtually all aspects of innate and adaptive immunity are affected by Zinc status.

Zinc lozenges work by delivering Zinc directly to the throat and upper respiratory tract. Multiple meta-analyses confirm that Zinc acetate and Zinc gluconate lozenges containing more than 75 mg/day of elemental Zinc shortened common cold duration on average by 33%. A meta-analysis including 28 trials with 5,446 participants reported that symptoms resolved approximately 2 days earlier compared to placebo.

At the cellular level, Zn²⁺ reduces the production of inflammatory cytokines TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta, resulting in anti-inflammatory function. Zinc supplementation has also been shown to protect mononuclear cells against oxidative stress and negatively regulate gene expression of inflammatory cytokines that generate reactive oxygen species.

This product features OptiZinc® (L-OptiZinc), the only high-potency Zinc supplement FDA-approved safe for human nutrition. L-OptiZinc is a patented 1:1 complex of Zinc and 100% natural methionine — the amino acid that is best absorbed by the body and serves as an antioxidant. Studies show that L-OptiZinc is absorbed better, retained longer, and is more effective than ordinary Zinc supplements tested. It also resists binding with dietary fiber and phytate, organic compounds that inhibit Zinc absorption.

Unlike other Zinc supplements, OptiZinc® will not cause anemia by removing iron from cells.

Zinc lozenges may be particularly beneficial for adults looking to support their immune system, especially during cold and flu season. People who are deficient in Zinc are more susceptible to infections, and Zinc supplementation helps protect against colds and upper respiratory illnesses.

Men may benefit from Zinc for two common concerns. The hormone testosterone requires Zinc for its production, and infertility resulting from low testosterone levels may respond to increased Zinc intake. Symptoms resulting from an enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may also be relieved with additional Zinc.

Individuals facing surgery are encouraged to take sufficient Zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin C before and after surgery. Studies show that taking sufficient amounts of these nutrients may help optimize wound healing.

Women dealing with Candida or yeast infections may also find support from Zinc's immune-boosting capabilities. This effect may be enhanced by combining Zinc with vitamins A, C, and E.

Certain populations may be at greater risk for Zinc deficiency, including people who have had gastrointestinal surgery, those with digestive disorders such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, vegetarians, and older adults. Research indicates that 35%–45% of adults aged 60 years or older have Zinc intakes below the estimated average requirement.

This product is gluten free, dairy free, soy free, and grain free.

Take one (1) tablet daily with meals. Store in a cool, dry place and away from direct light.

Each tablet contains 20 mg of OptiZinc®. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for Zinc is 8 mg/day for women and 11 mg/day for men. The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for adults is 40 mg/day.

Zinc may interact with certain medications, including quinolone antibiotics (such as Cipro), tetracycline antibiotics, and penicillamine. To help avoid interactions with antibiotics, take the antibiotic at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, taking a Zinc supplement. For penicillamine, take Zinc supplements and penicillamine at least 1 hour apart. Taking supplements that contain a substantial amount of iron (≥25 mg) at the same time as Zinc supplements may also reduce Zinc absorption.