Statistically significant lower risk is seen for mortality, ventilation, hospitalization, progression, recovery, and viral clearance. 19 studies from 18 independent teams in 9 countries show significant improvements.
Meta analysis using the most serious outcome reported shows 28% [18‑36%] lower risk. Results are similar for Randomized Controlled Trials, higher quality studies, peer-reviewed studies, and after excluding studies using combined treatment.
20 sufficiency studies analyze outcomes based on serum levels, showing 71% [62‑78%] lower risk for patients with higher zinc levels.
Results are robust — in exclusion sensitivity analysis 21 of 46 studies must be excluded to avoid finding statistically significant efficacy in pooled analysis.
8 studies use combined treatments. After exclusion the risk reduction is 26% [16‑35%] compared to 28% [18‑36%].
5 RCTs with 1,040 patients have not reported results (up to 4 years late).
The European Food Safety Authority has found evidence for a causal relationship between the intake of zinc and optimal immune system function1,2. Over-supplementation may be detrimental3. Bioaccessibility of supplements varies widely4.
No treatment or intervention is 100% effective. All practical, effective, and safe means should be used based on risk/benefit analysis. Multiple treatments are typically used in combination, and other treatments are more effective. The quality of non-prescription supplements can vary widely5,6.
All data to reproduce this paper and sources are in the appendix. 6 other meta analyses show significant improvements with zinc for mortality7-11, severity12, and cases12.
6 meta analyses show significant improvements with zinc for mortality
1-5,
severity
6, and
cases
6.
Covid Analysis et al., Oct 2024, preprint, 1 author.
