The Best Cold and Flu Remedies
We compared eight cold and flu remedies based on owner ratings, reviews, and prices. Zicam Ultra Cold Remedy Zinc Rapidmelts emerged as the top pick for its effectiveness and high user satisfaction.
Updated
The bottom line
Zicam Ultra Cold Remedy Zinc Rapidmelts (B005IGQPU0) is our top pick for cold and flu relief. It has a high owner rating of 4.8/5 from 2364 ratings, contains zinc to shorten colds, and is non-drowsy and sugar-free. The closest alternative is Zicam Cold Remedy RapidMelts (B000WAWN8K), which has a similar rating of 4.8/5 from 10242 ratings but is slightly more expensive. For a budget option, Zicam Cold Remedy RapidMelts Cherry Flavor (B00027CDME) has a 4.7/5 rating from 3118 ratings and costs $9.33.
Zicam Ultra Cold Remedy Zinc Rapidmelts $7.22
Best overall cold remedy
Zicam Ultra Cold Remedy Zinc Rapidmelts is the top pick due to its high owner rating of 4.8/5 from 2364 ratings and its effectiveness in shortening colds. Priced at $7.22, it offers great value. The tradeoff is its specific orange cream flavor, which may not appeal to everyone.
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Zicam Cold Remedy RapidMelts $9.29
Highly effective with citrus flavor
Zicam Cold Remedy RapidMelts is a strong runner-up with a 4.8/5 rating from 10242 ratings. It contains two forms of zinc and is non-drowsy. Priced at $9.29, it is slightly more expensive but offers a citrus flavor that many users prefer.
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Zicam Cold Remedy RapidMelts Cherry Flavor $9.33
Affordable and effective
Zicam Cold Remedy RapidMelts Cherry Flavor is the budget pick at $9.33 with a 4.7/5 rating from 3118 ratings. It is effective in shortening colds and is non-drowsy. The tradeoff is its slightly lower rating compared to the top picks.
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- Zicam Ultra Cold Remedy Zinc Rapidmelts Best for effectiveness and value 10.0/10 $7.22 Amazon
- Zicam Cold Remedy RapidMelts Highly effective with citrus flavor 9.5/10 $9.29 Amazon
- Zicam Cold Remedy RapidMelts Cherry Flavor Affordable and effective 9.0/10 $9.33 Amazon
- Beekeeper's Naturals Propolis Throat Spray Natural throat relief with high owner rating 8.5/10 $13.99 Amazon
- Beekeeper's Naturals Kids Propolis Immune Support Throat Spray Natural immune support for kids 8.5/10 $25.00 Amazon
- Beekeeper's Naturals Propolis Throat Spray Natural throat relief with high owner rating 8.5/10 $21.25 Amazon
- Beekeeper's Naturals Propolis Throat Soother Spray Immediate cooling comfort for throat relief 8.0/10 $11.89 Amazon
- Zicam Zinc Cold Remedy Effective zinc-based cold remedy 7.5/10 $15.00 Amazon
Daily Use and Flavor Preferences
Owners of Zicam Ultra Cold Remedy Zinc Rapidmelts and Zicam Cold Remedy RapidMelts frequently mention the pleasant taste and convenience of the quick-dissolve tablets. The citrus and orange cream flavors are particularly popular. In contrast, Beekeeper's Naturals products, while effective for throat relief, have a more natural taste that some users find less appealing.
Who Should Buy Which
Zicam products are suitable for those looking to shorten the duration of colds with a non-drowsy formula. Beekeeper's Naturals products are better suited for individuals seeking natural ingredients and throat relief. Parents may prefer Beekeeper's Naturals Kids Propolis Immune Support Throat Spray for its kid-friendly taste and effectiveness.
Also-Rans
Beekeeper's Naturals Propolis Throat Soother Spray (B0DZ582FSX) and Zicam Zinc Cold Remedy (B005ZSTUTO) did not make the top picks due to slightly lower owner ratings and less compelling evidence of effectiveness compared to the top products.