The common cold carries a substantial economic burden, causing approximately $40 billion in annual productivity losses. A recent study published in PLOS ONE offers a potential solution: Biovanta, a novel cold treatment. The study, a large, multi-center, placebo-controlled clinical trial, involved 157 participants with cold symptoms across six U.S. cities. It investigated the efficacy of an immune complex comprising lactoferrin, lysozyme, aloe, and salicylates, all recognized for their anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties.
The trial, “Supporting Respiratory Epithelia and Lowering Inflammation to Effectively Treat Common Cold Symptoms,” focused on a unique mechanism: strengthening the respiratory lining and reducing inflammation. Participants received either a placebo or a throat spray containing the immune complex. The results were compelling. Those using the throat spray reported significant symptom relief, including an almost 80% improvement in sore throat. The Modified Jackson Score, which assesses eight key cold symptoms (congestion, nasal discharge, sneezing, cough, sore throat, headache, and malaise), showed a reduction of up to 70% in the treatment group.
This research represents a significant advancement in cold treatment, a field that has seen limited innovation for decades. Current over-the-counter cold remedies often show minimal effectiveness compared to placebos, and many lack clinical testing altogether. Existing product trials are frequently short, potentially masking the fact that they address symptoms without targeting the underlying cause: inflammation. In contrast, the Biovanta trial spanned two days, evaluating the efficacy of eight doses against a placebo. The study’s findings confirm that addressing inflammation and reinforcing the respiratory lining are effective strategies for treating the common cold.
The immune complex used in the Biovanta products differentiates them from traditional over-the-counter remedies. Many of those remedies depend on ingredients like dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, pseudoephedrine, and benzocaine. While commonly marketed, these ingredients often lack proven efficacy against the common cold. The FDA’s recent declaration of phenylephrine’s ineffectiveness further underscores the need for new cold treatment solutions. Biovanta offers a clinically proven alternative, leveraging bioactive ingredients with anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. This approach targets the root cause of cold symptoms, inflammation, offering a potentially more effective treatment option.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Jon, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
