Serious Denture Cream Risks
Consumers who are currently using denture creams containing zinc may not realize the great risks associated with their usage. Two of the most popular denture creams on the market, Super Poligrip (manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline) and Fixodent (manufactured by Procter & Gamble) have been linked to the development of serious illnesses such as copper depletion that may result in neurological problems (or nerve damage).
Denture creams have been on the market for several years, and is considered a Class I medical device by the Federal Food and Drug Administration, meaning it does not require a warning label. However, in 2008, a study published in the medical journal Neurology found that long-term use of denture cream could lead to patients developing neurological problems due to having too little copper in their blood. The denture cream contains zinc, and too much zinc in one’s diet can lead to depletion of copper in the blood, which affects the spinal cord and causes subsequent nerve damage. Symptoms of nerve damage include numbness, tingling, weakness, difficulty moving the limbs, and difficulty balancing.
In February 2010, GlaxoSmithKline voluntarily stopped its production of denture creams containing zinc, and began developing zinc-free formulas. As they stated, “We are taking these actions because we have become aware of potential health problems associated with the long-term excessive use of our zinc-containing denture adhesive products.” However, Fixodent remains on store shelves.
Contact an Experienced Attorney
The attorneys at the Pintas & Mullins Law Firm have extensive pharmaceutical litigation experience. Use of denture creams containing zinc over extended periods of time has shown to lead to serious nerve damage. The drug manufacturing companies did not adequately warn consumers of these risks. If you or a loved one has developed any of these conditions, contact our office for a free legal consultation today.