Zicam

The Nature of the Drug: Zicam is a common over-the-counter remedy for cold and flu symptoms that is produced and marketed by Matrixx International. It supposedly bolsters an individual’s immune system. The active ingredient is zinc gluconate, and because the Zicam is marketed as a homeopathic remedy, it does not need FDA approval.

zicam

Zicam has been sold in different forms, incuding lozenges, nasal sprays, fast-dissolving strips, a nasal swab, and a nasal gel.

The Hazards of Zicam: The product can harm users because it contains zinc. Zinc is a potentially toxic metal, and anosmia (loss of sense of smell) has been reported in people exposed to zinc. Loss of sense of smell tends to impair sense of taste, so Zicam can diminish quality of life.

The product can also be dangerous. People lacking a sense of taste can become malnourished. And a sense of smell is needed to detect spoiled food; gas leaks; fire; and other hazards. The risk of anosmia from Zicam is so high that in 2009, the FDA recommended against using Zicam nasal gel or swabs.

To Obtain Legal Relief: If you have lost your sense of smell after using Zicam in any of its forms, you may have valuable legal rights. Attorney Stephen A. Katz is available at (800) 251-3529 for a free consultation, or for legal representation.