Even if you take zinc lozenges very soon after cold symptoms start, if the lozenges aren't made well, they still might not help you feel better faster.

Taking zinc lozenges soon after cold symptoms start can help adults get over their colds faster, cutting down how long you feel sick by about 1 to 4 days.

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

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

Taking high-dose zinc lozenges right when you start feeling a cold can shorten how long you're sick by almost half, according to studies in adults.

Taking zinc lozenges (like a special candy) right when you start feeling a cold can help you feel better. Using about 80-100 mg per day works best, and taking more than that doesn't give extra benefit.