Zicam Products Removed from Store Shelves

From Geriatric Pharmacy Intern Angela M Antuna, PharmD(c) Palm Beach Atlantic University Lloyd L. Gregory School of Pharmacy

Why Zicam nasal products are not safe to use
The FDA has recently issued an alert on Zicam nasal gels and swabs due to the risk of anosmia or loss of smell. Reports have shown that people have experienced loss of smell with just the first application. In addition, the loss of smell may be more than temporary. Some reports say that it may be permanent. Others have also reported loss of taste too. The sense of smell and taste work closely together to give food its distinct taste. In some cases the sense of smell can save lives. For example, it is important to be able to smell smoke in case of a fire.
Zicam products are frequently sold at retail drug stores for early signs of the common cold. These products are homeopathic or natural products given in small amounts. Many natural products are not thoroughly tested by the FDA for safety and efficacy. Zinc gluconate is the chief ingredient found in Zicam. Some believe the intranasal application of zinc gluconate may be killing the receptors responsible for the sense of smell. The company strongly believes in the product and that the loss of smell may be due to the common cold itself. The FDA is now thoroughly investigating if the loss of smell is directly related to its use.
The company has willingly taken these products off the market and is asking consumers to throw away any remaining. However, for a refund you could simply go online to www.zicam.com and fill out the form provided. The company states, “The other 17 Zicam-branded products (including our oral Cold Remedy, cough, sinus, extreme congestion and allergy products) are all safe and effective and will remain on retailer shelves.”