Zicam Lawsuits: Loss of Smell and Taste

Zicam, a popular over-the-counter nasal gel used to decrease the duration of the common cold, that was linked to a loss of smell and taste in some users. In June 2009, the FDA warned consumers not to use nasal spray and swab versions of the cold remedy.

The manufacturer, Matrixx Initiatives, failed to perform adequate testing on their product and have not provided sufficient warnings to users. As a result, hundreds have lost their sense of smell and taste, known as anosmia.

The Zicam lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. previously reviewed potential claims for those who have suffered permanent injury.

The manufacturer has already settled approximately 340 lawsuits, but people continue to be impacted every day by the dangerous cold remedy.

ZICAM SMELL AND TASTE PROBLEMS

Zicam gel is delivered by a nasal spray or swab, which places zinc gluconate directly into the nasal cavity. While use of zinc could reduce the length and strength of the common cold, it has also been widely known that heavy use in one area of the nose could cause damage to the sense of smell. Zicam gel could deliver toxic doses which damage the nose tissues, triggering loss of smell and taste.

Introduction of too much zinc into the nose with Zicam can cause anosmia, which is a complete and permanent loss of smell and taste. Over 2 million people suffer from anosmia and there is no consistently sucessful treatment available to restore the smell and taste problems.

The Zicam problems with smell are caused by damage to the olfactory nerve, which not only impacts the sense of smell, but can also affect the ability to enjoy food, leading to poor nutrition.

Loss of smell is a serious problem which could increase the risk of potentially catastrophic physical injury. Those with impaired smell are substantially more likely to suffer injury from cooking accidents, consuming spoiled food, failing to detect gas leaks or fires.

On June 16, 2009, th FDA warned consumers not to use Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel, Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs and Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs in Kids Size. In addition, Matrixx Initiatives was told that they mus stop marketing the cold remedies and submit safety and effectiveness data for review if they intend to sell the products.

ZICAM LAWYERS

The product liability lawyers at Saiontz and Kirk, P.A. reviewed  Zicam lawsuits for users throughout the United States who have suffered permanent damage to their sense of smell and taste.

New cases are no longer being accepted by Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. This page is maintained for informational purposes only.