Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel: FDA Warning

Zicam Cold Remedy nasal gel and related products have been allegedly linked to permanent damage to the sense of smell. The FDA says about 130 consumers have reported a loss of smell after using Zicam products since 1999.

"Loss of the sense of smell is potentially life threatening and may be permanent," said Dr. Charles Lee, of FDA's compliance division. "People without the sense of smell may not be able to detect dangerous life situations, such as gas leaks or something burning in the house."

The FDA says that Zicam Cold Remedy was never formally approved but was not required to undergo federal review before being introduced to the market.

No formal recall has been issued by the company who manufactures Zicam Cold Remedy  (Matrixx), but they said that the product may be removed from store shelves in the coming weeks.

If Matrixx wants to continue marketing their zinc based products they will have to seek FDA approval.

The global market for homeopathic drugs is about $200 million per year, according to the American Association of Homeopathic Pharmacists. The group's members include companies like Nutraceutical International Corp. and Natural Health Supply.