Zicam Recall By FDA Announced
July 6, 2009 by US Drug Recall
Filed under Zicam Recall
After receiving reports of more than 130 cases from consumers, where majority of them iterated that they have suffered a loss or damage due to the use of Zicam, the FDA on 16th of June, 2009, finally decided to recall the over-the-counter nasal remedy off the shelves. In the FDA’s recall on loss of smell, the organization urged the consumers to discontinue the use of Zicam cold remedy nasal gel and related products, as they are likely to instill a permanent loss of smell and taste in users. The three products Zicam products which were recalled by the U.S Food and Drug Administration are:
- Zicam Lawsuit Cold Remedy Nasal Gel
- Zicam Lawsuit Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs
- Zicam Lawsuit Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size (a discontinued product)
The FDA’s decision to recall these products is also based on several scientific reports and data which suggest that the zinc content in these products can damage the olfactory nerves in the nose, which are indeed quintessential for the normal functioning of sense of smell and taste.
A long-lasting or permanent disability to smell or taste can result in a potential threat for the safety and health of an individual, as an individual who has impaired these senses might not be able to detect fire, smoke and spoiled food. Janet Woodcock, the director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, echoed the voice of many when she expressed her concern saying, “Loss of sense of smell is a serious risk for people who use these products for relief from cold symptoms. We are concerned that consumers may unknowingly use a product that could cause serious harm, and therefore we are advising them not to use these products for any reason.”
The FDA has urged all the Zicam users to report any adverse side effects of Zicam, including anosmia to the FDA’ s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program, if they have experienced any. The FDA is also committed towards helping the consumers with different channels to report the side-effects to the concerned department.
The FDA’s warning to the manufacturers of Zicam clearly states that the manufacturers need to conduct a thorough testing and research to establish the safety of these products before seeking the approval of FDA for their re-introduction into the market. It is a must mention here that, though the manufacturers of Zicam still continue to call the settlements as a business decision, and continue to say that these products are safe to use.
If you or someone you love has been injured, please contact the McEwen Law Firm today for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to serious monetary compensation to cover lost wages, medical expenses and more. Call us toll free today at (800) 732-3070 and talk direct with an attorney that can assist you in recovering your losses. We work on a contingency basis which means you never pay a dime – unless we win your case and recover compensation for you!
