What is Zicam Nasal Spray?
Zicam Nasal Spray is a popular cold remedy that is used to help relieve symptoms of the common cold. It is made with zinc, which is believed to help shorten the duration of a cold when taken at the first sign of symptoms. It comes in different forms such as No-Drip Liquid Nasal Spray and Extreme Congestion Relief Nasal Gel.
While Zicam Nasal Spray has been a popular choice for cold relief , it has also faced some controversies. In 2009, the F.D.A warned against the use of Zicam due to reports of loss of taste and smell. Though these reports only made up a small percentage of overall users, they were serious enough to warrant a warning from the F.D.A.
Despite these concerns, Zicam Nasal Spray remains a popular choice for cold relief and the company behind it continues to develop and market new products. While it is important to be aware of any potential side effects and to follow instructions carefully, Zicam Nasal Spray may be an effective option for those looking for relief from common cold symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions about zicam nasal spray
oxymetazoline hydrochloride
Drug Label Information
Active Ingredient/Active Moiety |
Ingredient Name | Basis of Strength | Strength |
---|
oxymetazoline hydrochloride (UNII: K89MJ0S5VY) (oxymetazoline - UNII:8VLN5B44ZY) | oxymetazoline hydrochloride | .5 mg in 1 mL |
Zicam
Type | homeopathic remedy |
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Inventor | Charles B. Hensley and Robert Steven Davidson |
Inception | 1990s |
Manufacturer | Zicam, LLC |
Current supplier | Zicam, LLC |
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday warned consumers to stop using certain Zicam nasal cold remedy products, saying they can cause users to lose their sense of smell permanently.
ZicamĀ® offers a range of products for nasal cleansing and congestion/sinus relief products. Homeopathic, for non-drowsy relief of sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes.
Serious side effects
- Blurred vision.
- fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat.
- headache, dizziness, drowsiness, or lightheadedness.
- high blood pressure.
- increase in runny or stuffy nose.
- nervousness.
- trembling.
- trouble in sleeping.
Oxymetazoline is a decongestant that shrinks blood vessels in the nasal passages. Dilated blood vessels can cause nasal congestion (stuffy nose).
Yes, Zicam products are regulated as OTC drugs by the FDA.
Suggested Use. As a dietary supplement, adults take three (3) gummies daily.
pump 2 times into each nostril. avoid inhaling deeply. wipe away any excess. dose every 3 hours, not to exceed 5 doses in one 24 hour period.
Federal drug regulators warned consumers to stop using Zicam, a popular homeopathic cold remedy, because it could damage or destroy their sense of smell.
Using the medication too long or too often may worsen your symptoms or cause nasal congestion to clear up and come back. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 days of treatment.
The most commonly reported side effects were discomfort or irritation in the nose, mouth or throat, and sneezing.
As it turns out, Zicam isn't really a homeopathic medication. It contains a measurable amount of zinc gluconate which is there because of some soft evidence that zinc can reduce the severity of the common cold if taken at the first signs of an infection. So Zicam may actually have some mild effect.
do not use for more than 3 days. Use only as directed. Frequent or prolonged use may cause nasal congestion to recur or worsen.
Do not swallow whole. repeat every 2 - 3 hours, not to exceed 7 tablets in 24 hours. Take until symptoms are gone. to avoid minor stomach upset, do not take on an empty stomach.
to avoid minor stomach upset, do not take on an empty stomach. do not eat or drink for 15 minutes after use. Do not eat or drink citrus fruits or juices for 30 minutes before or after use. Otherwise drink plenty of fluids.