The FDA reports Zicam-related smell loss (From Zicam.com)
Over 130 Zicam users have complained to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about long lasting and even permanent smell loss following their use of Zicam products. Today, the FDA called on consumers to stop using Zicam's Cold Remedy Nasal Gel, Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, and Cold Remedy Swabs, Kid Size.
Some Zicam users reported significant smell loss (anosmia) after their very first use, while others used the products for extended periods before noticing a problem. The active ingredients in most Zicam products are zinc derivatives such as Zincum Gluconium and Zincum Aceticum, but the FDA has not identified the ingredient or aspect of delivery responsible for the related loss of smell.
Zicam markets its products as homeopathic remedies, which are not subject to as rigorous standards as prescription and some over-the-counter drugs.
In response to the FDA warning, Zicam has stopped shipments of the three products, and is offering a refund to consumers. However, the company has declared the FDA's action "unwarranted," and is standing by their products.
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