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What is Zicam™? Zicam™ is an over-the-counter nasal spray used to relieve the symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. Zicam™ is an intranasal, zinc solution spray inserted directly into the nostrils. Zicam™ is manufactured by Matrixx Initiatives, Inc., which produces, markets and sells the following Zicam™ products: · Zicam™ Kids Size Cold Remedy Swab · Zicam™ Cold Remedy nasal gel · Zicam™ Allergy Relief nasal gel · Zicam™ Cold Remedy Swabs · Zicam™ Extreme Congestion Relief · Zicam™ Sinus Relief · Zicam™ Nasal Moisturizer Zinc products fall under the homeopathic division of the Food and Drug Administration and therefore do not require pre-market approval. In the late 1930s, zinc was used in Canada on 5,000 children during a polio outbreak. At that time, doctors were hopeful that the zinc would kill the polio virus as it entered the nasal cavity. The zinc spray did not kill the polio vaccine and 25 percent of the children exposed to the nasal spray experienced varying degrees of loss of taste and smell. Safety Questioned Some physicians have linked Zicam™ with a total loss of taste and smell, a condition known as anosmia. Some users report a burning sensation in their nasal cavities immediately after using the product, followed by a loss of smell and taste. In spite of reports and medical opinions regarding the nasal spray being linked to anosmia, the manufacturer has not warned the public of the risks. Dr. Terence Davidson, Director of the University of California Nasal Dysfunction Clinic, explains the potential dangers stating, "You put zinc on the olfactory receptor and you effectively kill the receptor. It's like pouring acid on an open wound." In January 2006, the company agreed to pay $12 million to settle 340 lawsuits brought by consumers who claimed that Zicam™ Cold Remedy, the zinc nasal gel that is the company's flagship product, damaged or destroyed their sense of smell. Matrixx denied that Zicam™ was responsible and blamed a virus. On April 11, 2006, The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) launched an inquiry into the advertising and promotion of Zicam™ Cold Remedy and half a dozen similar over-the-counter cold products manufactured by Matrixx Initiative. The company disclosed the investigation in a filing to the Securities and Exchange Commission, saying it was designed to determine whether Matrixx engaged in "unfair or deceptive acts or practices." What You Can Do If you or someone you know has experienced injuries that may have been caused by taking Zicam™ you should explore your legal rights. |
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