The science isn't clear on alternative cold remedies such as vitamin C, echinacea and zinc. Because studies of alternative cold remedies in children are limited, these remedies are most often not recommended for use in children. Here's an update on some popular choices: Vitamin C Taking vitamin C is unlikely to prevent the common cold.

Understanding the Context

Bexarotene Boceprevir Bosentan Brigatinib Brivaracetam Carbamazepine Ceftobiprole Medocaril Cenobamate Ceritinib Clarithromycin Clobazam Cobicistat Cyclosporine Dabrafenib Daclatasvir Darolutamide Dexamethasone Dicloxacillin Dipyrone Echinacea Efavirenz Elafibranor Elagolix Elbasvir Elexacaftor Eltrombopag Eluxadoline Enasidenib Encorafenib ... Cobicistat Cyclosporine Ebola Zaire Vaccine, Live Echinacea Encorafenib Enzalutamide Fosaprepitant Fosphenytoin Glucosamine Idelalisib Indinavir Influenza Virus Vaccine, Live Itraconazole Ivosidenib Ketoconazole Lonafarnib Lumacaftor Mifepristone Mitotane Nefazodone Nelfinavir Paritaprevir Phenindione Phenprocoumon Phenytoin Posaconazole ... Cranberry. Echinacea.

Key Insights

Garlic. Ginseng. Vitamin C. Vitamin D. Zinc.

Final Thoughts

Check with your healthcare team before you try any products that promise to boost your immune system or chase away colds and other illnesses. Some of these products may cause side effects or mix poorly with other medicines you may be taking.