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Zicam lawsuits are legal actions taken by users of the over-the-counter cold medication who suffer injuries from the medication. Injury reports related to Zicam use continue to surface throughout the U.S. and, as a result, so do Zicam lawsuits.
Individuals who use Zicam have reported to have suffered from a condition referred to as anosmia, or a complete loss of smell. What causes the loss of smell? Apparently, the nasal spray consists of zinc, an ingredient that has been known to damage the nerves inside the nose that are needed for smell.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, as of June 2009, more than 130 people have reported to have suffered from anosmia after using Zicam. In response to these reports, the FDA issued an announcement, advising consumers to stop using Zicam products. This warning resulted in a Zicam recall, effective June 16, 2009.
Three Zicam products were pulled from U.S. shelves following the warning issued by the FDA:
According to the FDA, some consumers said they experienced a loss of smell after using a Zicam product one time, while others said they didn’t experience it until a few uses. Despite the onset of the condition, the FDA has voiced concerns that Zicam-induced loss of smell will be permanent in many cases.
The manufacturers of Zicam, Matrixx Initiatives, settled about 340 Zicam lawsuits involving anosmia in 2006. The total combined cost of the 2006 Zicam settlements was $11.9 million plus $10,000 in additional costs.
Because of the volume of individuals harmed by the over-the-counter cold remedy, some law firms have initiated Zicam class action lawsuits in which plaintiffs with similar cases can join together and seek compensation from Matrixx. Depending on your own individual circumstances, a defective drug attorney with experience in Zicam cases can help determine whether filing an individual lawsuit or joining a class action would be the best option for you.
If you’ve suffered anosmia after using a Zicam product, you will likely be eligible to recover compensation for your injuries. To speak with a Zicam attorney who will evaluate your claim to see whether you have a claim, contact us today.
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