zinc gluconate + glycine

**Zinc gluconate + glycine** is a combination of zinc gluconate, a zinc salt, and glycine (aminoacetic acid), formulated as lozenges primarily for treating symptoms of the common cold. The zinc component provides an essential trace mineral that supports enzymatic reactions, immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, and cell division; proposed antiviral mechanisms include inhibiting rhinovirus replication by binding to viral coat proteins, preventing capsid formation, and potentially inducing interferon production. Clinical studies show mixed results: some demonstrate reduced cold duration and severity in adults and school-aged children (e.g., from 9 to 7.5 days), decreased antibiotic use, and prophylactic benefits in lowering cold frequency, while others, particularly in children, found no significant efficacy over placebo. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, available over-the-counter, with common administration as 10 mg zinc lozenges dissolved orally multiple times daily; adverse effects include bad taste, nausea, mouth irritation, and diarrhea.

Brand names

Cold-Eeze

Other names

ZGGzinc gluconate glycine lozenges