Should you take Zinc lozenges for a cold? Let's find out exactly what these (Zinc Lozenges) are!

When you have a cold or a sore throat, has a friend ever said, "Dude, get a Zinc lozenge from the pharmacy and suck it, it will go away quickly"? Or maybe you have seen it yourself. Now many people are talking about this. So what exactly are these Zinc Lozenges? Is it good to use them? How exactly should you use them? Today we will talk about all this simply, in a way that you can understand.

Let's first see, what is Zinc?

Simply put, Zinc is an essential mineral that is essential for our body to stay healthy. Zinc helps our immune system function properly, heal wounds, and grow cells.

Now, these Zinc Lozenges are a type of lozenge that you can suck on. It's like the Strepsils we take for a sore throat. They're designed to help reduce the severity of cold symptoms and the length of time you have the illness. When you suck on these lozenges, the Zinc is deposited directly in the throat and nose, which is believed to reduce the spread of the virus that causes the cold.

Things to tell your doctor before using these pills

Although zinc is a supplement that can usually be purchased at a pharmacy, it's safest to talk to your doctor before you start using it, especially if you have any of the conditions below.

• If you have an allergic reaction to Zinc or any other medicine or food: Some people may be allergic not only to Zinc, but also to other ingredients used to make the pills.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: It is essential to seek medical advice before using anything during pregnancy.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: Some things can pass to your baby through breast milk, so inform your doctor about this as well.

How exactly do you use this Zinc Lozenge?

To get the most out of this, it's important to know how to use it correctly. Many people make mistakes in this.

1. Let the tablet dissolve completely in your mouth: This is the most important thing. Do not chew the tablet or swallow it whole. Let it dissolve in your mouth. This will help the Zinc dissolve well in your throat and mouth.

2.If you experience stomach upset, take it with food: Some people may experience mild stomach upset and nausea when taking this on an empty stomach. If this happens, take it after a meal.

3. Do not eat or drink anything for 15 minutes after taking the pill: After the pill dissolves, it is important to let the Zinc sit in your throat for a while. So do not drink water for at least 15 minutes.

4. Avoid citrus fruits: This is something that many people don't know. Do not consume citrus fruits or fruit drinks like oranges, tangerines, and lemons 30 minutes before or after taking your zinc pill. This is because the zinc in citrus fruits can bind to the zinc and reduce its absorption into the body.

5. Do not use more than the recommended amount: Use only as directed on the label or as directed by your doctor. Taking too much zinc can cause other health problems.

Can these be given to small children?

Generally, these can be given to children over 12 years of age, under medical advice, in some cases. However, this should be discussed with your pediatrician and only done with his approval.

What are the possible side effects?

Like anything, Zinc Lozenges can cause minor side effects in some people. Let's break these down into two categories.

Other medications that may interact with Zinc

This is also very important. If you are taking medication for another condition, you should tell your doctor before using Zinc. Zinc may reduce the absorption of some medications into the body.

A few more important things to remember

• If used for more than 7 days:If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, be sure to see a doctor. Do not use Zinc for more than 7 days at a time without medical advice.
• If you miss a dose: If you forget to take a pill on time, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.
• Overdose: If you think you have taken more pills than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
• How to dispose of medicine: Keep unused, expired pills away from children and pets. If you are throwing them in the trash, take the pills out of the container, mix them with something like used tea leaves or coffee grounds, put them in a bag, seal it well, and throw them in the trash.