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.

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 help with cold symptoms not just in your throat where the zinc is strongest, but also in your nose just as much.

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 zinc acetate lozenges for colds, at doses up to about 90 mg per day, didn't cause any major side effects in studies with nearly 200 people.

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.