Stuff 4 Better Living

Hugh Pickens writes “The FDA has advised consumers to stop using Matrixx Initiatives’ Zicam Cold Remedy nasal gel marketed over-the-counter as a cold remedy because it is [1]associated with the loss of sense of smell (anosmia) that may be long-lasting or permanent. The FDA says about 130 consumers have reported a loss of smell after using the homeopathic cure containing zinc, an ingredient scientists    say may damage nerves in the nose needed for smell and health officials say they have asked Matrixx executives to turn over more than 800 consumer complaints concerning lost smell that the company has on file. ‘Loss of the sense of smell is potentially life-threatening and may be permanent,’ said Dr. Charles Lee. ‘People without the sense of smell may not be able to detect life-dangerous situations, such as gas leaks or something burning in the house.’ The FDA said the [2]remedy was never formally approved because it is part of a small group of remedies known as homeopathic products that are not required to undergo federal review before launching. The global market for homeopathic drugs is about $200 million per year, according to the American Association of Homeopathic Pharmacists. Matrixx has settled hundreds of lawsuits connected with Zicam in recent years, but says it ‘will [3]seek a meeting with the FDA to vigorously defend its scientific data, developed during more than 10 years of experience with the products, demonstrating their safety.’” http://science.slashdot.org

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