Columbus, Ohio Attorney Blog - Robert W. Kerpsack Co., L.P.A.

On June 16, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned consumers to stop using three varieties of the popular cold remedy Zicam, including the Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel, Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, and Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs (Kids Size), because they have been associated with loss of sense of smell. Over the past 10 years since the product was introduced in 1999, the FDA has received more than 130 reports of long-lasting or permanent loss of smell associated with Zicam products.

The FDA warns that these products were never formally approved for use. It furthermore points out that there is no evidence that these products reduce the duration or severity of cold symptoms. The situation is similar, but not identical, to that of the Hydroxycut products that were recalled for liver damage risk last month. The FDA has said that if Zicam-maker Matrixx Initiatives wants to continue to market the product, it will have to submit safety and effectiveness data.

The loss of smell may be associated with nasal nerve damage resulting from exposure to zinc. Zinc is a heavy metal that is toxic to nerve tissue, and is implicated in nerve damage associated with denture cream use.

The FDA urges all people to dispose of unused portions of these Zicam products. If you have experienced a loss of sense of smell, the FDA recommends you should talk to your healthcare provider.

If you have been hurt by this or by other dangerous drugs, you may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, diminished quality of life and other damages. Contact the Columbus, Ohio personal injury lawyers at Robert W. Kerpsack CO, L.P.A. for a free case review.