Zicam
Zicam is a nasal spray and cold remedy used to reduce the symptoms and length of a common cold. It is sold over-the-counter and can be either sprayed or swabbed directly onto the patient's nasal surface.
Side effects of Zicam include an intense burning sensation in the nasal cavity that is experienced immediately after using the Zicam spray. This is often followed by a loss of smell after cold symptoms have cleared up, a condition known as anosmia. In addition to a loss of the sense of smell, patients have also complained of a loss of the sense of taste.
The active ingredient in Zicam is Zincum Gluconicum (Zinc Gluconate) which can cause nasal nerve damage. However the makers of Zicam, Matrixx, have not provided adequate warnings to consumers about the risks of side effects associated with Zicam.
If you are using Zicam and notice a burning sensation in the nasal cavity or a loss of smell or taste, stop using Zicam immediately and contact a medical professional to discuss your options.
Zicam Articles
[ ZICAM ] Some people have reported that, along with taking away the sniffles, it has also taken away their sense of smell, a condition known as anosmia.
Zicam News
[ ZICAM: News Leader] Aug-01-07: Matrixx, makers of Zicam, settled a batch of 340 lawsuits for $12 million in January 2006, court and SEC documents show.
[ ZICAM: Insurance Journal ] May-23-07: A deputy U.S. marshal from Putnam County is suing the maker of Zicam, saying it caused him to lose his sense of smell, which is critical to his line of work.
[ ZICAM: CBS4 ] Feb-27-07: After using Zicam, victim felt a burning sensation in her nose, and within a few days realized she had lost both her ability to taste and to smell.
[ ZICAM: KUTV ] Feb-27-07: Minnesota man claims Zicam permanently damaged his sense of smell.