The FDA is warning consumers that the zinc-containing cold remedy products Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel, Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, and Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size have all been associated with long lasting or permanent loss of smell (anosmia). The products are marketed by Matrixx Initiatives.
Consumers are advised to stop using these products.
Since 1999, the FDA has received more than 130 reports of anosmia associated with the use of Zicam zinc-containing intranasal products. Some of the individuals experiencing anosmia reported loosing their sense of smell after using one dose of Zicam, while others reported a loss after multiple Zicam doses. Some of those affected reported a prolonged loss of the sense of smell while a permanent loss was experienced by others.
According to the FDA’s advisory:
Loss of the sense of smell may cause serious problems, such as failing to smell smoke, a gas leak, or spoiled food. Also, loss of the sense of smell is often linked with a loss of the sense of taste. People who cannot taste could unintentionally eat spoiled food and not appreciate flavors, and lose much of the pleasure of eating.
FDA recommends that consumers contact their healthcare provider if they experience loss of the sense of smell or taste, or experience other problems after using any zinc-containing nasal products.
Adverse events that occur with the use of Zicam should be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program as follows:
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online at www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm ,
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by phone (1-800-FDA-1088),
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by returning the postage paid FDA form 3500 (which may be downloaded from www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm ) and mailing to MedWatch, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20853-9787, or
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by fax (1-800-FDA-0178).
For 25 years, the Law Firm of Eric H. Weinberg has helped hundreds of individuals injured by recalled drug products. We are ready to help you. If you believe that you have suffered an injury related to the use of Zicam, please click Free Legal Case Evaluation, or call us toll free at 1-877-934-6274.
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