Supplement

Zinc (with ionophore)

Supplement.

How to take it

There is no established standard dose for this case; it is advisable to consult a professional.

Safety

In vitro finding; does not show that taking zinc cures infections.

Effect by goal · level of evidence

Virus replication (in vitro)

reduces Low study (A)

In cell culture, raising zinc inside the cell (with an ionophore) slowed replication of the SARS coronavirus and other RNA viruses by inhibiting their polymerase. It is an IN VITRO mechanism: it explains the interest in zinc for infections, but does not show clinical efficacy.

View the study (study) →

In depth

Supplement · Highest evidence: Low · 1 finding

⚠️ In vitro finding; it does not show that taking zinc cures infections.

Findings

Virus replication (in vitro) — reduces (Low, study). In cell culture, raising zinc inside the cell (with an ionophore) slowed the replication of the SARS coronavirus and other RNA viruses by inhibiting their polymerase. This is an IN VITRO mechanism: it explains the interest in zinc for infections, but it does not demonstrate clinical efficacy. 21079686

Information, not medical advice. Prescription drugs require a doctor.

Information, not medical advice. Scientific evidence reflects the quality of the studies.