I've tried both LEF's expensive Zn lozenges and inexpensive 50mg zn tablets from my local CVS. Honestly I do fine on 1/3 of the ones from CVS. I just chew it with a little water in my mouth to allow it to coat my mouth and throat. I especially like that before going to bed.
I wonder if your DHEA is low. It is downstream from pregnenolone.