Nasal Swab Cold Remedy

by Brad McHargue

Overview

When people feel a cold beginning to develop, they often resort to any number of remedies designed to stop it dead in its tracks. These can include anything from large doses of vitamin C to Zicam, a zinc-based medication that comes in a variety of applications. One such form is a nasal swab or nasal gel; however, these methods have come under much scrutiny and should be used with caution.
Uses

Cold remedies that come in the form of a nasal swab are available over-the-counter, with the principle brand being Zicam. The primary ingredient is zinc, and although the Mayo Clinic reports that studies supporting its efficacy are deeply flawed, those that came to positive conclusions show that zinc can be an effective method of treating the common cold if used within the first 48 hours after symptoms appear. Zicam is used with an applicator, which resembles a long Q-tip, inserted into the nasal passages and swirled around for the time set forth in the instructions, which typically lasts a few seconds.

Warnings

Nasal swab cold remedies are known as intranasal applications, and according to the Food and Drug Administration and the Mayo Clinic, there is a good risk of developing anosmia, or a loss of smell, through their use. Forms of nasal swabs known to cause anosmia include Zicam brand nasal gel and swabs, and there have been over 130 cases reported. The tendency for these zinc-based nasal swab cold remedies to cause anosmia is confirmed by a report found in the journal The Laryngoscope, which concludes that anosmia can occur when the epithelium of the nose is exposed to zinc cation. Despite this, the Mayo Clinic reports that zinc can indeed be an effective way to treat a cold, and as such, most zinc-based treatments, especially those ingested and even those not claiming to treat the common cold, are relatively safe to use.