The common element zinc is the active ingredient in Zicam.  Zinc one of the most common metals used throughout the world in a variety of products, but if used in some applications it can cause a condition called Anosmia.  Anosmia causes the loss of smell, and consequently causes the partial reduction of the sense of taste.  Loss of the sense of smell is rather dangerous, because victims can no longer detect hazards such as the smell of fires, gas leaks, or other dangerous fumes or chemicals.

The Food and Drug Administration does not monitor many Zinc-containing products, because they fall into an area that does not require specific legal oversight.  Consequently, many innocent people are unaware of the potential risks of using zinc in applications such as nasal medicine.  Doctors and scientists have known the risk zinc poses to the delicate tissues in and around the nose, and are quick to point out that the results provided by zinc-based products do not outweigh the dangers they pose.

Matrixx Initiatives, Inc markets Zicam in a number of allegedly safe products, each of which has can permanently damage the sense of smell.  Zinc-based Zicam products include Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel, Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs, Zicam Extreme Congestion Relief, Zicam Allergy Relief Nasal Gel, Zicam Sinus Relief, Zicam Kids Size Cold Remedy Swabs, and Zicam Nasal Moisturizer.  According to current laws, Matrixx Initiatives, Inc does not have to alert consumers to any of these potential side effects.

If Zicam caused the loss of smell and taste to you or someone you love, you may be able to pursue a lawsuit to recover damages based on your injury and loss.  You must not hesitate because the statutes of limitations give you only so much time to speak to a lawyer about your case.  Let a dedicated and experienced lawyer help get you the compensation you deserve today.