The common cold is typically caused by viruses, most often rhinoviruses, which infect the upper respiratory tract (nose and throat). 1 Zinc has been reported to block the replication of rhinovirus. By ...

Possible side effects from zinc supplements may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, numbness, weakness, and abnormal labs.

The short answer is yes, zinc can be effective in reducing the duration of a cold. Research has consistently supported its role in shortening cold symptoms, particularly if taken early. A ...