Use Of Product Can Lead To Loss Of Sense Of Smell
Consumers often search for information online when there is news of a drug recall. Many of these consumers are now wondering: “does Zicam work?” or “is Zycam safe?” No matter how you spell it, this popular over-the-counter medication has proven to be problematic. On June 16th 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) wrote a letter to Matrixx Initiatives outlining over one hundred confirmed cases that positively linked three of their medicines to either temporary or permanent loss of the sense of smell. This terrible malady, known commonly as anosmia, was brought about as a direct result of using one of three offerings from the popular line of cold remedies under the product line Zicam (again, often misspelled as Zycam). While many patients say that they had to use one several times before losing their olfactory function, others report that they lost the sense almost immediately after a single use.
The FDA warned the company about the following three offerings that were targeted at people suffering from flu-like symptoms:
Cold Remedy Nasal Gel (15mL, NDC 62750-003-10) Cold Remedy Swabs (20 swabs, NDC 67250-003-20) Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size (20 swabs, NDC 67250-003-21)
Though some consumers have been conducting searches for information about these products under the term “Zycam,” it should be noted that the actual brand name is “Zicam” for each of these different varieties.
Since the nasal remedies are intended to combat ailments that are viral in nature, they do not claim to cure the sickness, but only to reduce the symptoms. They promise quick relief from issues like congestion, headache, and sinus pressure associated with the buildup of sinoidial fluid.
Subsequently many victims were looking for relief from painful symptoms when they sought out these remedies. They quickly became worried at the startling occurrence of some of the following symptoms:
The government verified over 130 cases of anosmia before sending their warning to the remedy manufacturer. The company (also sometimes mistaken as “Zycam”) is Matrixx Initiatives. Although they maintain that all of their products are completely safe for use, they performed a voluntary Zicam recall of the three of those listed, costing them millions of dollars, and forcing their stock price down.
Health care officials are warning people against using the supposed remedies, saying that a lost sense drastically reduces quality of life. Many victims say they lose strong memories associated with pleasant smells. Some people have even reported loss of libido, even depression. These very same victims may be searching for information about “Zycam” right now.
It is also possible that anosmia can lead to life-threatening situations. For example, victims will not notice natural gas leaks from furnaces, water heaters, and fireplaces. If the gas builds to a high enough level, it can cause respiratory and brain damage, or death. Whether Zicam or Zycam, it is clear that consumers should be cautious.
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