Zicam

Zicam Cold Remedy is an over-the-counter homeopathic medicine that acts to reduce the duration and severity of the common cold when taken at the first sign of cold symptoms. Manufactured by Matrixx Initiatives, Inc., Zicam Cold Remedy is a zinc-based solution that can be taken as a tablet or a nasal spray. The medication works by delivering a dose of zinc gluconate to the nasal passages, throat and pharynx.

Why Prescribed

Zicam Cold Remedy is used to shorten the duration and minimize the symptoms associated with the common cold.

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FDA Approved Uses

The FDA is currently investigating consumer complaints that Zicam is causing anosmia, or the loss of smell and taste.

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Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with Zicam include nausea, vomiting and gastrointestinal discomfort. Other adverse reactions include a metallic taste, headache and drowsiness.

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Warnings and Alerts

Despite the manufacturer's assurances that Zicam adheres to FDA guidelines and restrictions, lawsuits have been filed by Zicam users against both Matrixx Initiatives and Zicam LLC, claiming that taking Zicam has caused anosmia, or a loss of smell and taste. Many Zicam users have also reported experiencing horrific, almost unbearable burning after using the nasal spray.

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Drug Contraindications

Zicam is contraindicated in those who are hypersensitive to any component of a zinc-containing supplement.

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FAQ's

How effective are natural remedies like zinc?

Some studies show that zinc nasal sprays help cut a cold's severity and duration. Zinc sprays may coat the cold virus and prevent it from attaching to nasal cells where they enter the body. But other studies show that zinc is no more effective than a placebo.

What are homeopathic remedies?

Homeopathic remedies (also called homeopathics) are a system of medicine based on three principles:

• Like cures like
  For example, if the symptoms of your cold are similar to poisoning by mercury, then mercury would be your homeopathic remedy.
• Minimal Dose
  The remedy is taken in an extremely dilute form; normally one part of the remedy to around 1,000,000,000,000 parts of water.
• The Single Remedy
  No matter how many symptoms are experienced, only one remedy is taken, and that remedy will be aimed at all those symptoms.

Why can't I eat or drink citrus fruits or juices for 30 minutes after taking Zicam?

The acids found in citrus fruits and juices can interact with the efficacy of zinc.

Is Zicam safe for pregnant women?

The recommended daily allowance for zinc increases during pregnancy from 12 mg to 25 mg per day. A daily dosage of (6) six Zicam lozenges delivers 80 mg of elemental zinc. As pre-natal vitamins contain elevated dosages of zinc, and a normal 2000-calorie diet delivers approximately 10mg of zinc per day, the addition of as few as (1) one or (2) two Zicam lozenges (13.3 mg each) may exceed upper limits for daily intake or approximately 40 mg. As with all other medications, if you are pregnant or breast feeding, ask a health professional before using.

What should I do if I think I have been injured as a result of using Zicam?

While all medications have certain, anticipated side effects, a drug manufacturer has a duty to inform physicians adequately regarding the known risks associated with its drugs. If a manufacturer fails to do so, it can be held responsible to patients who are injured as the result of inadequate warnings, under a legal theory known as "product liability."

If you or a loved one has used Zicam and has suffered the loss of smell or taste, contact a drug litigation attorney at once. It may be too late to recover from the debilitating effects of Zicam, but a qualified lawyer can help you recover damages for your pain and suffering.

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