Adverse Side Effects Prompt Consumers To File Zicam Lawsuit
On June 16, 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) wrote a letter to Matrixx Initiatives, the makers of the popular brand of cold and flu remedies. In the letter, the government agency outlined over one hundred confirmed cases that positively linked three of their products to victims either temporarily or permanently losing their sense of smell. This terrible malady, known commonly as anosmia, was brought about as a direct result of using one of three products from the popular line of Zicam nasal spray. While many patients say that they had to use the products several times before losing their olfactory function, others report that they lost their sense of smell almost immediately after a single use. The FDA warned the company about the following three product offerings, targeted at people suffering from common cold and flu 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)
Since the products 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 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 manufacturer. Although the company maintains that all of their products are completely safe for use, they performed a voluntary recall of the three products listed, costing them millions of dollars, and forcing their stock price down. Health care officials are warning people against using the sprays, saying that that a lost sense of smell drastically reduces quality of life. Many victims report that they enjoy their life less without olfactory function. They lose strong memories associated with pleasant smells, and constantly want to smell new things, but are unable to do so. Some people have even reported loss of libido, even depression. 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 fire places. If the gas builds to a high enough level, it can cause respiratory and brain damage, or death. The prominence of problems is inspiring some victims to bring lawsuits against the parent company, Matrixx Initiatives. If you feel that you are exhibiting any of the symptoms or ailments described above, and have recently taken any of the cold and flu remedies that were mentioned, contact your health care professional immediately. If your doctor or physician positively diagnoses you with anosmia, contact an injury lawyer immediately. It does not matter if the Zicam problems are temporary or permanent. All that matters is that you get in touch with someone as soon as possible, so you can be sure to secure any recompense that you may be owed.
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