Several published reports, which will be fully described later in this chapter, show the beneficial effects of positively charged hydrated Zn²⁺ ions on common cold severity and duration. Analysis of the reports shows zinc gluconate lozenges containing no other zinc-complexing agents reduce the severity and duration of common colds in a dose-dependent manner. The fraction of zinc initially released from zinc gluconate at 30 mMol as Zn²⁺ ion is about 30 percent at pH 7.4 in the absence of any other chelator (see Figure 1 in Chapter 1). The first study used unsweetened zinc gluconate tablets as lozenges. Tablets stimulated production of very little saliva and lasted about 30 minutes. Lozenges produced a high ZIA value and reduced colds by 7 days. The second study used fructose-based zinc gluconate lozenges. Sweetness stimulated production of more saliva. Lozenges dissolved more quickly, had a ZIA value slightly less than half the value of the first study lozenges, and proportionately reduced colds by 4.8 days. The third and fourth studies used low-dosage lozenges, had lower ZIA values, and were less effective on common colds.