Recall Considered Following Zicam Cold Remedy Anosmia Link

Matrixx Initiatives, Inc is considering recalling its Zicam Cold Remedy nasal gel and related products after reports surfaced linking the medications to anosmia, a permanent loss of smell. The Zicam brand boasts some of the company’s most lucrative products, accounting for approximately 40 percent of their total sales.

Zicam Loss of Smell

In July 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning to consumers regarding the risk of anosmia associated with Zicam products. The warning followed more than 130 reports of anosmia since the product first hit the market in 1999.

Consumers claimed in their reports that they experienced a strong sense of pain during administration of the product, an indication that the product damaged nasal tissues. Matrixx Initiatives Inc. refuted those claims, stating that their products boast a neutral pH and naturally occurring compounds. Subsequent research has revealed that Zinc, one of the main ingredients in Zicam cold remedy treatments, may lead to permanent nerve damage in nasal tissues, which can cause consumers to lose their sense of smell.

Because Zicam cold remedy products are considered homeopathic treatments, they were not subject to FDA approval before release. Following the reports of anosmia after usage, the FDA is now requiring that Zicam products receive formal approval before they are rereleased.

Zicam Lawsuits

Losing the sense of smell could place consumers in several life-threatening situations, including the inability to smell gas leaks or detect fires. Patients who have lost their sense of smell after using Zicam cold remedy products should speak with a lawyer at Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz, who can help them file a defective drug claim against Matrixx Initiatives Inc.

The law firm of AWKO has settled more than 300 lawsuits against Matrixx Initiatives Inc. and has earned more than $12 million of compensation for Zicam victims. Contact AWKO Law today at (888) 255-2956 and let them help you earn the compensation you deserve as a Zicam injury victim.