Certain zinc lozenges can help treat colds if they're made without ingredients like citric acid, but if those ingredients are added, the lozenges might not work because they don't release enough zinc.

Some zinc lozenges can help you get over a cold faster if they're made the right way, but store-bought ones with extra ingredients might not work as well.

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.

Zinc lozenges and nasal gel are safe to use for treating colds in adults. They might cause minor issues like stomach upset or nose irritation, but no major problems have been found in studies.

Zinc lozenges might help with colds, but it depends on how much zinc you take and what type of zinc it is. Taking more than 75 mg a day works, while less doesn't, and acetate zinc works better than other kinds.

Taking certain zinc lozenges (not the acetate kind) in high daily doses might shorten how long you have a cold by about one-fifth, but different brands or types seem to work differently based on studies.