SamuelTa asked
I was told that Cold-Eeze was Zinc Gluconate but the box says zincum gluconicum. Same thing?
Answer
Zincum gluconicum is the same thing as zinc gluconate. There is no difference between the two. Zincum gluconicum is simply to preferred way of listing zinc gluconate in over the counter homeopathic supplements, such as in Cold-Eeze and Zicam.
Other zinc salts include zinc acetate and zinc orotate. A study comparing the various formulations of zinc gluconate, zinc acetate, and zinc orotate found that zinc gluconate (i.e. zincum gluconicum) is the preferred salt formation used for cold lozenges because it has been proven safe in geriatric individuals, even those taking multiple medications. Another study has found that zinc gluconate significantly reduces the duration of the common cold.
Zinc For Colds
Zinc is an essential trace element that acts as an antioxidant and supports the immune system. The body does not create it own zinc meaning we must obtain zinc from our diet. Some common foods that contain zinc are red meats, fish, and poultry. The exact mechanism of action of Zinc is not known, but zinc has proven to have both antiviral and antibacterial activity making it a great treatment for the common cold.
The most common side effects include upset stomach, metallic taste, vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. When taking zinc it is important to remember not to take it on an empty stomach to prevent an upset stomach, do not eat or drink for 15 minutes after taking, and cold medications should only be taken when sick. When taking zinc long term it may cause a deficiency of copper, which could cause immune system suppression, neurologic disorders, and cardiovascular disorders.
