Manufactured by Matrixx Initiatives, Zicam is an intra-nasal zinc solution, used for the treatment of cold symptoms and to shorten the duration of symptoms. It is available for purchase over-the-counter.
In June of 2009, the FDA notified consumers and healthcare professionals to discontinue use of three Zicam Nasal Gel/Nasal Swab products sold over the counter as cold remedies, after it was determined that these products could be linked to long-term or even permanent sense of smell, a condition known as anosmia.
What is Anosmia?
Anosmics cannot detect scents or smells of any kind and, also have a severely reduced sense of taste. In addition to not being able to taste food, Anosmia is a dangerous condition, when considering instances where the detection of certain odors or scents can alert people about a potential dangerous situation, such as a gas leak, or smoke from a fire.
Studies have shown that zinc nasal cold sprays and gels, like Zicam, not only have dangerous side effects, but are ineffective against colds. Two placebo controlled studies found intra-nasal zinc to have no affect on the severity or duration of cold symptoms.
Which Zicam Nasal Gel products have been recalled?
Mattrixx Iniatives, Inc. produces a handful of common-cold and allergy relief products. Three of their Zicam products have been recalled:
- Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel
- Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs
- Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size
In its initial report, the FDA noted 130 reported cases of loss of smell due to the use of Zicam. If you or a loved one has experienced any degree of anosmia symptoms, contact the experienced lawyers of Dyer, Garofalo, Mann & Schultz to assess your legal options. We will fight for you to get sufficient cash settlement for you. Call 1-800-223-8897 or contact us today to set up a free consultation.
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