Zicam Claims for Loss of Smell and Taste

The US Food and Drug Administration has warned consumers to stop using 3 Zicam Cold Remedy Products after the products were linked to the loss of the sense of smell (anosmia). The FDA made the announcement after receiving more than 130 reports of anosmia linked to the products. The onset of Zicam smell loss varied, with some patients reporting it after the first dose of cold remedy, while others reported the condition after multiple uses of the product.

The products named in the FDA's advisory are Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel, Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs and Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size (a discontinued product).

Zicam is an over-the-counter nasal solution and cold remedy that is applied either by spraying or swabbing the product directly onto the nasal surface. Patients reportedly complained about an intense burning sensation in their nasal cavity immediately after using the Zicam product. This was followed by a loss of the sense of smell after the cold symptoms cleared up. Anosmia is also linked to a decrease in the ability to taste.

In addition to decreasing quality of life, loss of sense of smell can be dangerous for people. Some signs of danger include the smell of gas or smoke, which people with anosmia would not be able to detect.

Zicam contains the active ingredient Zincum Gluconicum (also known as Zinc Gluconate). This active ingredient has been linked to nasal nerve damage and is believed to cause a caustic action on the nasal passages that leads to a loss of the sense of smell.

Zicam is manufactured by Matrixx. Matrixx's line of products includes Zicam Cold Remedy, Zicam Allergy Relief, Zicam Maximum Strength Flu and more. The FDA has sent Matrixx a warning letter, advising the company that these products cannot be marketed without FDA approval.