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Minerals
Zinc
In plain language
A mineral that supports immune function. Can modestly shorten a cold if taken as a lozenge right when symptoms start.
Is it an approved medication?
No — not an approved medication
No - sold as a food supplement, not a medication
How strong is the evidence?
Moderate for cold duration; strong for correcting a true deficiency
The main thing to know
Long-term high doses can cause a copper deficiency.
Mechanism
Cofactor for over 300 enzymes; essential for immune cell function, wound healing, and antiviral defense.
Potential benefits
- Reduced duration/severity of common cold symptoms (lozenge form, started early)
- Immune support in deficient individuals
Regulatory status
Dietary supplement, widely approved