Fixodent/Polygrip Linked to Neurological Problems Caused by Zinc Poisoning

UPDATE:

On February 18, 2010 GlaxoSmithKline announced that it would be discontinuing certain zinc-containing Super Poligrip products due to the risk that use of such denture adhesives may cause serious and potentially debilitating problems from zinc poisoning.

GlaxoSmithKline stated that it would stop manufacturing, marketing, and advertising three zinc-containing denture cream products. The products that were the subject of the announcement are: Super PoliGrip 'Original', 'Ultra Fresh' and 'Extra Care.' Zinc-free replacement versions of these products are expected on the market by the end of 2010.

Denture cream is a type of adhesive that is used to secure dentures to the mouth. This kind of cream fixes dentures in place so that they wont slip or move during everyday activities. Proctor and Gamble began producing Fixodent with zinc in 1990, and zinc was added to Super Poligrip products in 1996 to enhance holding power, as zinc is believed to help with the adhesive properties of denture creams.

Increased levels of zinc in the body can deplete copper levels, causing a condition known as hypocupremia. Hypocupremia increases the risk of significant neurological problems that may leave an individual with permanent, debilitating physical injuries. Neurological symptoms stemming from increased exposure to zinc may include numbness, tingling or weakness in the arms and legs, difficulties with walking and balance and blood problems, including anemia. Symptoms might also include paralysis, numbness, tingling in hands, loss of sensation or unexplained pain in the legs and arms, and numerous other neurological problems.

Until recently, neither GlaxoSmithKline nor Proctor and Gamble had alerted consumers of the risks of zinc poisoning or informed users that zinc was an ingredient in their products. In October of 2009 GlaxoSmithKline added a new warning to Super Poligrip denture cream, which placed consumers on alert that the product contained zinc and identified certain adverse health effects which have been known to stem from excessive use of the cream. Proctor and Gamble has added a new warning to the Fixodent website, but has still not added any warning on Fixodent packaging, as the manufacturer insists that the product is safe. Proctor and Gamble has no plans to reformulate the Fixodent components, and claims that such inaction is justified because the levels of zinc in Fixodent are approximately half of those in Super Poligrip.

GlaxoSmithKline also maintains that its products are safe when used properly and has stated that the market removal of its three zinc-containing Super Poligrip products is a precautionary measure to minimize any potential risks to consumers. Because of GlaxoSmithKline’s initiatives, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet mandated further safety action. GlaxoSmithKline made approximately $525 million from the sale of denture adhesive products in 2009.

If you have been using denture creams and believe that you may have been injured, it is imperative that you have a blood test done to determine whether your zinc and copper levels have been altered. These blood tests should be done within 4 months of your last usage. Treatment for zinc poisoning is not always successful. Some patients have seen a reversal of their symptoms, however, for most the effects are permanent. Zinc poisoning is extremely serious.

Severe Zinc poisoning can lead to neuropathy, a condition that affects the nerves. Symptoms of neuropathy vary, but may include numbness or tingling in the feet, legs, hands, and/or arms; a reduction in  strength or ability to move  legs or feet, or arms and hands; unexplained pain in the extremities; a tendency to stumble or fall down; instability and lack of balance; or a change or decrease in  walking stride.

Treatment for zinc poisoning is not always successful. Some patients have seen a reversal of their symptoms, however, for most the effects are permanent. Zinc poisoning is extremely serious.

If you believe that you or a loved one has suffered from zinc poisoning, caused by denture cream, you may want to speak with an attorney regarding a potential lawsuit. A lawyer familiar with new developments in the investigation of denture cream may be able to help you make important personal and legal decisions.

Please contact the law offices of d'Oliveira & Associates at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form for a free legal consultation.