Scientists still don't know exactly how zinc lozenges help shorten how long you feel sick with a cold.

Taking zinc lozenges when you first start feeling sick with a cold might help you get better faster and feel less miserable.

Taking zinc lozenges with less than 75 mg per day doesn't seem to shorten how long a cold lasts, based on studies comparing them to fake pills. It might only work if you take enough.

Taking zinc lozenges when you have a cold might help you get better faster, cutting down how long you're sick by about one-third.

Taking zinc acetate lozenges when you have a cold can help you get better faster, cutting down how long you're sick by about 2 to 3 days.

Taking special high-strength zinc lozenges when you have a cold can help you get better about three days faster.