Zicam cold remedies recalled by FDA

(CNS): The Health Services Authority (HSA) said that it is advising the public to stop using three Zicam intranasal products following an announcement by the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to recall them. Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel (15mL, NDC 62750-003-10); Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs (20 swabs, NDC 67250-003-20); Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size (20 swabs, NDC 67250-003-21) were recalled as a result ofover one hundred 130 reports of people losing their sense of smell.

“If you have these products in your home, it is imperative to stop using them immediately and discard them,” said Dr. Greg Hoeksema HSA Medical Director. “We are concerned that consumers may unknowingly use a product that could cause serious harm, and therefore we are advising them not to use these products for any reason.”

The FDA said more than 130 reports of anosmia or olfactory anaesthesia, which is loss of the sense of smell after use had been reported about these Zicam products are regularly sold over the counter in pharmacies, and retail shops, as well as over the Internet. The FDA is reportedly concerned that loss of the sense of smell after any one-time use of the three Zicam products listed may be permanent.

Dr Hoeksema added that loss of the sense of smell can adversely affect a person’s quality of life, and can limit the ability to detect dangerous odours such as the smell of gas or smoke or other signs of hazards in the environment. If you believe you have suffered any ill effects from using Zicam, you are encouraged to speak with your health care provider right away.