Fixodent, PoliGrip, Super PoliGrip, Denture Cream Lawsuit

Fixodent, PoliGrip, Super PoliGrip, Denture Creams | Lawsuits, Lawyers | Side Effects:Hyperzincemia – Zinc Poisoning, Hypocupremia – Copper Depletion or Copper Deficiency, Neuropathy, Other Neurological Side Effects, Nerve Damage

The denture cream lawyers at Gilman Law LLP investigating denture cream lawsuits, in connection with the harmful side effects that may result from using Fixodent, Poligrip or Super PoliGrip. These serious side effects of denture cream, are debilitating and can cause neuropathy and other serious neurological side effects.

Serious and Potentially Life-Threatening, Side Effects Lawsuit

Fixodent, Poligrip, Super Poilgrip and other denture creams with zinc have been linked to several serious, and potentially life-threatening, side effects caused by the zinc contained in these popular denture creams. Small amount of the mineral zinc is necessary for a healthy diet, but when zinc is ingested in large amounts this can lead to a copper deficiency, which in turn can cause, peripheral neuropathy.

Side effects of a zinc overdose associated with denture cream use may include:

Symptoms of denture cream zinc poisoning may include:

“Neurology” Denture Cream Study

In August 2008, the peer-reviewed journal “Neurology” published the first study to find a link between zinc-containing denture cream and severe neurological damage. That study reported on four patients suffering from neuropathy and other neurological symptoms typical of zinc poisoning and copper depletion. The article specifically linked excessive exposure to zinc in denture cream to “profound neurologic disease” in the patients reviewed. The patients all reported regularly using at least two tubes of zinc-containing denture cream in a single week, even though a typical tube is meant to last about three weeks. Based on the patients’ denture cream use, the researchers estimated that they were exposed to at least 330 mg of zinc daily.

Zinc Removed from Super Poligrip Denture Cream Products

In February 2010, GlaxoSmithKline announced it would reformulate its zinc-containing Super Poligrip denture cream products, and launch zinc-free versions that spring. In a statement posted on its Web site, Glaxo cited the risk of zinc poisoning, and said it decided to reformulate the products as a precautionary measure to minimize any potential risks to consumers. Glaxo maintained that the affected Super Poligrip denture creams were safe to use as directed, but noted that some consumers may apply more adhesive than directed, or use it more than once per day.

Procter & Gamble Adds Zinc Caution to Poligrip Denture Creams

In March 2010, Procter & Gamble quietly began cautioning consumers about zinc in Fixodent denture creams on its website. At the same time, Procter & Gamble also began shipping Fixodent with updated label instructions on how to apply the product. Many consumer advocates contend the caution did not go far enough to protect Fixodent users from zinc poisoning, and have continued to call on Procter & Gamble to remove zinc from the denture cream.

FDA Statement on Denture Cream Zinc Poisoning

In February 2011, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) finally acknowledged the risks posed by zinc-containing denture creams. In a letter dated February 23, the agency asked denture cream manufacturers to take steps to mitigate the risk of zinc poisoning from their products. The FDA also wrote that it was considering issuing a communication to warn consumers and health care providers about the possible risk of neurological injuries from excessive use of zinc-containing denture cream.

What is Denture Cream Zinc Poisoning?

Excessive exposure to zinc, which is used as a bonding agent and odor blocker in Procter & Gamble’s Fixodent, and until recently, some products in GlaxoSmithKline’s Super Poligrip line, can cause copper depletion and eventually nerve damage that can result in a permanent disorder called neuropathy. Zinc poisoning usually occurs when denture wearers use excessive amounts of zinc-containing denture creams to keep poorly-fitting appliances in place. Since the publication of the 2008 “Neurology” report, hundreds of Super Poligrip and Fixodent users have filed lawsuits against GlaxoSmithKline and Procter & Gamble.

Legal Help for Victims of Denture Cream Side Effects

If you or someone you know suffered from denture cream poisoning due to denture creams Fixodent, Poligrip, Super Poilgrip, Gilman Law is here to help. For a free evaluation of your case, please fill out the online form on the left or call Toll Free at 1-888-252-0048.