Drugs & Vitamins

Zinc Lozenges Active Ingredients: Zinc Salts Lozenges Representative Names: Halls Zinc Defense, Zinc Lozenges What are zinc salts lozenges? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I take this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with zinc salts? What side effects may I notice from taking zinc salts? What should I watch for while taking zinc salts lozenges? Where can I keep my medicine? What are zinc salts lozenges? (Back to top) ZINC (Cold-Eeze and others®) lozenges are nutritional mineral supplements promoted for the supportive treatment of cold symptoms. Some studies suggest zinc lozenges may shorten the duration of cold symptoms, but the FDA has not approved zinc for this purpose. Generic zinc lozenges are available. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •too little copper in the blood •an unusual or allergic reaction to zinc salts, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast-feeding How should I take this medicine? (Back to top) Let a zinc lozenge dissolve in the mouth slowly and completely; do not swallow whole and do not chew. Follow the directions on the package. Do not use zinc lozenges more often than directed. If this medicine has been recommended by your health care prescriber, finish the full course prescribed even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on your prescriber's advice. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. Lozenges may be a choking hazard to young children. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. What drug(s) may interact with zinc salts? (Back to top) •certain antibiotics (quinolones or tetracyclines) •copper supplements •iron supplements •phosphorus supplements Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects may I notice from taking zinc salts? (Back to top) Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: •chest pain •fever, chills, or sore throat •shortness of breath, wheezing •ulcers or sores in mouth that do not heal •unusual tiredness or weakness Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •abdominal pain •change in taste or an unpleasant taste •heartburn •stomach upset What should I watch for while taking zinc salts lozenges? (Back to top) Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your cold symptoms do not improve or if you get a high fever, sinus pain, or a cough that does not go away. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open. Store at room temperature below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F); do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Last Updated:05/25/2000 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.