All Zincs are Not Created Equal

Zinc gluconate is the zinc salt of gluconic acid. It is an ionic compound consisting of two molecules of gluconate for each molecule of zinc. Zinc gluconate is a popular form for the delivery of zinc as a dietary supplement.

During the past two decades, zinc-based medicines have gained widespread popularity in combating and lessening symptoms of the common cold. However, not all zinc compounds or zinc products are the same, and the variations in formulation and dosage can be significant. The link to the attached article provides an overview of the safety and efficacy of zinc-based cold remedies, in general, with special emphasis on those containing a gel formulation of zinc gluconate, the active ingredient in Zicam Cold Remedy product. Clinical research has shown zinc gluconate intranasal gel to be safe and efficacious (reducing symptoms/duration of the common cold) if used as directed within 48 hours of symptom onset. ^{1 2}