Zinc is a mineral that is used as a dietary supplement in people who do not get enough zinc from food.

Zinc gluconate lozenges are used to help make cold symptoms less severe or shorter in duration. This includes sore throat, cough, sneezing, stuffy nose, and a hoarse voice.

Zinc gluconate is not effective in treating flu or allergy symptoms.

Zinc gluconate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Take a zinc gluconate tablet with food if it upsets your stomach.

The recommended daily dose of zinc gluconate changes with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You may also consult the Office of Dietary Supplements of the NIH, or the USDA Nutrient Database of recommended daily allowances for more information.

Do not swallow a zinc gluconate lozenge whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth completely. Do not use more than 6 lozenges per day (or 4 per day for anyone 12 to 18 years old).

Start taking zinc lozenges as soon as possible after cold symptoms appear.

Call your doctor if your cold symptoms do not improve after 7 days.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Throw away any lozenges not used within 6 months after opening.

Usual Adult Dose for Dietary Supplement:

Dosage: 105 mg to 350 mg daily.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if zinc gluconate is safe to use if you have ever had:

• an allergy to zinc; or

• any condition that makes it hard for your body to absorb nutrients from food (malabsorption).

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old.

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Avoid eating or drinking anything for 15 minutes after dissolving a zinc gluconate lozenge in your mouth.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects may include:

• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;

• diarrhea;

• dry mouth, altered sense of taste; or

• an unpleasant taste in your mouth.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using zinc gluconate with any other medications, especially:

• an antibiotic; or

• a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect zinc gluconate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.