Which of the following is not recommended for URI symptom relief due to questionable efficacy or potential side effects?

Which of the following is not recommended for URI symptom relief due to questionable efficacy or potential side effects?

• A. Antihistamines
• B. Decongestant sprays
• C. Saline rinses
• D. Zinc supplements

Answer: (D)

When relieving URI symptoms, the goal is to use options with proven benefit and acceptable safety. Zinc supplements don’t meet that standard. The research shows inconsistent, often small or non-significant benefits in shortening or easing cold symptoms, and results vary across studies. More importantly, zinc can cause bothersome side effects such as a metallic taste, mouth and throat irritation, nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal upset. There’s also concern about long-term high-dose zinc affecting copper absorption. Because of the uncertain benefit and clear potential for adverse effects, zinc is not recommended for routine URI symptom relief. By contrast, saline rinses are safe and help clear secretions, and other remedies may be used with caution, but zinc lacks reliable efficacy and carries avoidable risks.

When relieving URI symptoms, the goal is to use options with proven benefit and acceptable safety. Zinc supplements don’t meet that standard. The research shows inconsistent, often small or non-significant benefits in shortening or easing cold symptoms, and results vary across studies. More importantly, zinc can cause bothersome side effects such as a metallic taste, mouth and throat irritation, nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal upset. There’s also concern about long-term high-dose zinc affecting copper absorption. Because of the uncertain benefit and clear potential for adverse effects, zinc is not recommended for routine URI symptom relief. By contrast, saline rinses are safe and help clear secretions, and other remedies may be used with caution, but zinc lacks reliable efficacy and carries avoidable risks.