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Zicam Cold Remedy Side Effects

Although the manufacturer of Zicam Cold Remedy claim it is completely safe, recent studies--and more than 400 lawsuits--indicate it contains adverse side effects. According to CBS News (WBBM-TV), 50 patients who took Zicam Cold Remedy suffered permanent nasal damage within weeks of use. Even with proper use, patients still reported the same side effects Most of the side effects associated with Zicam Cold Remedy are not life threatening but do impair a person's quality of life.

  1. Effects

    • According to The Consumerist, more than 400 people experienced a lowered sense of smell and taste, most notably a metallic taste in the mouth. In many cases it was so severe that they lost the ability to smell or taste food. Most of the damage was permanent. Other minor side effects included drowsiness, mild headaches and nausea.

    Causes

    • Terence Davidson of the University of California's Nasal Dysfunction Clinic believes Zicam Cold Remedy is damaging to the olfactory nerve. The olfactory nerve is responsible for a person's ability to smell. He believes it causes damage because Zicam Cold Remedy contains zinc, which impairs the olfactory nerve and limits its functioning.

    Time Frame

    • Loss of smell and taste was reported within two weeks in most patients. Other side effects, including nausea and mild headaches, were reported in 2 to 3 days. Increased use of Zicam Cold Remedy increased how fast the side effects developed.

    Considerations

    • Zicam Cold Remedy's most severe side effect, loss of smell and taste, was reported with their nasal swabs and gels, which are inserted into the nose. Their oral medications had very little incidents of side effects.

    Impact

    • The FDA's investigation into Zicam Cold Remedy's side effects has largely impacted them financially, affecting consumers' views of all of its products. Although its severe side effects are only reported in nasal medications, many people have banned its use altogether. Many anti-Zicam websites also offer information about how to file a lawsuit against Zicam for damages. The manufacturers of Zicam have already spent more than $12 million dollars to settle lawsuits outside of court.

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