Yesterday, we alerted our readers to the fact that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had issued a public warning regarding the dangers associated with several Zicam products. The agency also delivered a letter to Matrixx Initiatives, Inc. stating that they had to stop marketing these products unless they decided to put them through the normal FDA approval process that’s required of other medications.

Today, Matrixx Initiatives, Inc. responded by voluntarily pulling the products in question from retail shelves across the United States until the matter is resolved. The three specific products within the overall product line that were pulled include:

• Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel (15mL, NDC 62750-003-10)
• Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs (20 swabs, NDC 67250-003-20)
• Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size (20 swabs, NDC 67250-003-21)

To reiterate the warning issued by the FDA yesterday, you should immediately stop using these products if you have them in your home.

The reason this issue arose is because the FDA received at least 130 reports of consumers using the Zicam products listed above and developing ansomia, which is the loss of the sense of smell. Consumers reported the development of this side effect soon after use, and while no duration of the condition has been defined, some reported that it took several months for their sense of smell to return.

It’s believed that zinc, one of the ingredients in Zicam products, was the reason for this side effect, as it has been known to create similar problems in people who have been exposed to it in the past. If you or someone you love has been harmed as a result of using Zicam, contact the defective drugs attorneys at Phillips & Webster immediately to schedule a free initial consultation.