FDA Warns of Zicam Nasal Gel Risk to Smell

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SUMMARY

The FDA has issued a warning regarding Zicam Nasal Gel, specifically those containing zinc, due to the risk of permanent damage to the sense of smell. Health experts, including Dr. Janet O'Mahony from Mercy Medical Center, explain that while zinc is intended to combat viral infections, it may also be neurotoxic to the olfactory nerves. This warning has led to a significant decline in Matrixx Initiatives' stock, which dropped by 65% following the announcement. Consumers are advised to discontinue use of these products immediately.

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BALTIMORE (WJZ)

Federal regulators are warning the public about a commonly used cold remedy.

Federal regulators are warning the public about a commonly used cold remedy. Healthwatch reporter Kellye Lynn explains why people who use certain Zicam products should stop.

The FDA says the nasal gel could permanently damage a person's ability to smell.

Walk into any drug store and you'll find a variety of Zicam products. At issue are the ones that contain zinc.

"The theory is that zinc is toxic to virus particles and so if you have a virus in your nose or throat and you have the zinc, that will help fight the virus," said Dr. Janet O'Mahony, Mercy Medical Center.

But this active ingredient in Zicam could have another effect, which has raised concerns at the FDA. Zinc could also harm nerves in the nose necessary for smelling...
http://wjz.com/local/zicam.2.1047152.html
 
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Wow! Never took the stuff, but it's been on the shelves for quite some time. Wonder if this will be an easy fix for Matrixx or if the whole formula is messed up. Matrixx stock got nailed by 65% today.
 
The idea that it's killing virus particles in your nose sounds pretty useless anyway. If you're feeling sick, the virus has already gotten past your nose anyway. Is it really that long to wait 3 days for a cold to pass on its own?
 

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