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Digital News Report – GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is cautioning consumers about their Super Poligrip Original, Ultra Fresh and Extra Care denture adhesives. “Because the safety and health of our consumers is our primary concern, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Consumer Healthcare is issuing a Consumer Advisory warning consumers about the potential health risks associated with long-term excessive use of zinc-containing denture adhesives”, the company said in a statement.
The company has stopped making and marketing these potentially dangerous products. GSK will reintroduce their line without zinc. “GSK will soon be introducing zinc-free versions of Super Poligrip ‘Original’, ‘Ultra Fresh’ and ’Extra Care’.”
AboutLawsuits.com is reporting that a Miami family is suing GSK claiming a man suffered paralysis and then subsequently died from the use of their merchandise. The plaintiffs say that the company failed to warn consumers about the dangers of zinc in their products. Last year both Fixodent and Super Poligrip were named in class-action lawsuit filed in Tennessee. There are other lawsuits filed as well.
A 2008 study found that consumers who suffered from zinc poisoning may have used too much of the cream. The box says one tube should last 3 to 10 weeks. Researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center say some users went through two tubes in one week.
“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,” the GSK statement said.
Zinc poisoning can lead to serious neurological diseases and death. Symptoms include:
Skin reactions
Fever
Abdominal pain
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Lethargy
Anemia
Dizziness
Numbness
Zinc poisoning can also cause a copper deficiency called hypocupremia.
The company is now taking proactive action to warn consumers and change their product offerings.
Companies have begun offering alternatives to denture adhesives that contain zinc. GSK already sells Super Poligrip ‘Free,’ Super Poligrip ‘Comfort Seal Strips’, or
Super Poligrip ‘Powder’. Make sure the package says “Zinc Free”. Polident denture cleanser tablets do not contain zinc.
By: Jason Chang
Health Writer
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nice article, labels should have warnings!!