"The story does not mention the costs of zinc products. The story does a good job of describing how many studies showed no effect of the zinc products. In the one study showing a benefit of zinc nasal gel, the story provides quantification of benefits in natural frequencies (days of duration of the cold) rather than in terms of relative reduction. The story discusses unpleasant taste, upset stomatch, stinging sensation and, potentially, loss of smell as harms or side effects of zinc products. The story does a great job of describing the design of the current study, which is a special kind of literature review. The story does not exaggerate the seriousness or prevalence of colds. In fact the writer could have emphasized that colds are expensive, resulting in lost productivity and sick days due to illness in workers and their children. The story quotes an independent expert as well as the lead author on the current study and the representative of the manufacturer. The story mentions over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, and pain releivers as alternatives, appropriately pointing out that there is no ""cure"" for the common cold. The story clearly states that zinc products are available over the counter in drugstores. The story clearly states that zinc products are not a new idea. Because the story quotes multiple experts, the reader can assume that the story does not rely on a press release as the sole source of information."
An element of mystery in zinc cold treatments