FDA Warns Against Three Zicam Cold Medicines

-24/7 PressRelease

08/10/2009 - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises consumers to stop using three Zicam products marketed as cold remedies. The products are associated with the loss of sense of smell (anosmia), a condition the federal agency warns could be long-lasting or permanent.

The three products are Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel, Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs and Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size.

The FDA has received more than 130 reports of anosmia associated with the use of the three popular Zicam products. The FDA says the three zinc-containing products are all intranasal products. Other Zicam products, which are taken orally, are not affected by the FDA's action.

The FDA says some of the people reporting a loss of sense of smell said the loss occurred with the first use of the Zicam products; others reported the loss after repeated use.

Health experts say anosmia can have a negative impact on the quality of a person's life by robbing them of one of their five senses. It also limits the ability to detect the odors of potentially dangerous natural gas or spoiled foods.

People experiencing a loss of sense of smell or any other health problems after the use of the Zicam products should contact their health care provider.

The FDA said it has issued Matrixx Initiatives, the Scottsdale, Ariz. maker of Zicam products, a letter warning it that these products cannot be marketed without FDA approval. The agency didn't issue a formal recall of the products. The company later issued a voluntary recall of the three products.

Matrixx is reported to have settled hundreds of lawsuits connected with its Zicam products in recent years.

Company officials admitted to the Arizona Republic that Matrixx settled 340 lawsuits in 2006, without an admission of liability, at a cost of $12 million.

If you or a loved one have suffered loss of smell or taste as a result of Zicam Cold Remedy use you may be entitled to compensation. Our experience Zicam Attorneys can answer any questions you may have about the Zicam Recall, Zicam Side Effects, or a potential Zicam Lawsuit. Contact the Zicam Lawyer of Ennis & Ennis, P.A. today for a free case evaluation by filling out the form on this page or calling toll-free:
1-800-856-6405